The Effects of Injury Type on Health-Related Quality of Life in Youth Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The relationship between health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and injury type has not been analyzed for young athletes. We hypothesized that there would be no difference in HRQoL between injured athletes, injured nonathletes, and normative data for healthy youth (NDHY) or among athletes with acute, overuse, or concussion injuries. DESIGN: Cross-sectional clinical cohort. SETTING: Primary care sports medicine clinics at 3 academic institutions. PARTICIPANTS: Patients aged 8 to 18 years presenting with injury. INDEPENDENT VARIABLES: Injury type and athletic participation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Health-related quality of life measured 1 month after injury through the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pediatric-25 v2.0 assessed pain interference, peer relationships, depression, fatigue, anxiety, and mobility. One-way analysis of variance was performed with P values of <0.05 considered significant. Concussion Learning Assessment and School Survey (CLASS) evaluated academic performance. RESULTS: Three hundred fifty-seven patients (36% male), with average age of 14.2 years, completed HRQoL and CLASS surveys following injury. There were 196 overuse injuries (55%), 119 acute injuries (33%), and 42 concussions (12%). Ninety-four percent were athletes. Six percent were nonathletes; 90.5% of concussed patients reported grades worsening. Concussed athletes reported more fatigue (P = 0.008) compared with other injury types but no worse than NDHY. Athletes with overuse injuries had lower mobility (P = 0.005) than other injury types and NDHY. Patients with lower HRQoL were female, older age, or required surgery. No other domains had significant differences by injury type nor did HRQoL differ between the athletes, nonathletes, and NDHY. CONCLUSIONS: With the exception of injuries requiring surgery, HRQoL of injured young athletes was similar to NDHY in most domains.

Blocking CCN2 Reduces Established Palmar Neuromuscular Fibrosis and Improves Function Following Repetitive Overuse Injury.

The matricellular protein cell communication factor 2/connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF) is critical to development of neuromuscular fibrosis. Here, we tested whether anti-CCN2 antibody treatment will reduce established forepaw fibro-degenerative changes and improve function in a rat model of overuse injury. Adult female rats performed a high repetition high force (HRHF) task for 18 weeks. Tissues were collected from one subset after 18 wks (HRHF-Untreated). Two subsets were provided 6 wks of rest with concurrent treatment with anti-CCN2 (HRHF-Rest/anti-CCN2) or IgG (HRHF-Rest/IgG). Results were compared to IgG-treated Controls. Forepaw muscle fibrosis, neural fibrosis and entheseal damage were increased in HRHF-Untreated rats, compared to Controls, and changes were ameliorated in HRHF-Rest/anti-CCN2 rats. Anti-CCN2 treatment also reduced phosphorylated-ß-catenin (pro-fibrotic protein) in muscles and distal bone/entheses complex, and increased CCN3 (anti-fibrotic) in the same tissues, compared to HRHF-Untreated rats. Grip strength declines and mechanical sensitivity observed in HRHF-Untreated improved with rest; grip strength improved further in HRHF-Rest/anti-CCN2. Grip strength declines correlated with muscle fibrosis, entheseal damage, extraneural fibrosis, and decreased nerve conduction velocity, while enhanced mechanical sensitivity (a pain-related behavior) correlated with extraneural fibrosis. These studies demonstrate that blocking CCN2 signaling reduces established forepaw neuromuscular fibrosis and entheseal damage, which improves forepaw function, following overuse injury.

Vitamin D Metabolites Are Associated With Musculoskeletal Injury in Young Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study.

The relationship between vitamin D metabolites and lower body (pelvis and lower limb) overuse injury is unclear. In a prospective cohort study, we investigated the association between vitamin D metabolites and incidence of lower body overuse musculoskeletal and bone stress injury in young adults undergoing initial military training during all seasons. In 1637 men and 530 women (aged 22.6 ± 7.5 years; body mass index [BMI], 24.0 ± 2.6 kg/m- 2 ; 94.3% white ethnicity), we measured serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (24,25(OH)2 D) by high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2 D) by immunoassay during week 1 of training. We examined whether the relationship between 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2 D:24,25(OH)2 D ratio was associated with overuse injury. During 12 weeks of training, 21.0% sustained ≥1 overuse musculoskeletal injury, and 5.6% sustained ≥1 bone stress injury. After controlling for sex, BMI, 2.4 km run time, smoking, bone injury history, and Army training course (Officer, standard, or Infantry), lower body overuse musculoskeletal injury incidence was higher for participants within the second lowest versus highest quartile of 24,25(OH)2 D (odds ratio [OR] = 1.62; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13-2.32; p = 0.009) and lowest versus highest cluster of 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2 D:24,25(OH)2 D (OR = 6.30; 95% CI 1.89-21.2; p = 0.003). Lower body bone stress injury incidence was higher for participants within the lowest versus highest quartile of 24,25(OH)2 D (OR = 4.02; 95% CI 1.82-8.87; p < 0.001) and lowest versus highest cluster of 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2 D:24,25(OH)2 D (OR = 22.08; 95% CI 3.26-149.4; p = 0.001), after controlling for the same covariates. Greater conversion of 25(OH)D to 24,25(OH)2 D, relative to 1,25(OH)2 D (ie, low 1,25(OH)2 D:24,25(OH)2 D), and higher serum 24,25(OH)2 D were associated with a lower incidence of lower body overuse musculoskeletal and bone stress injury. Serum 24,25(OH)2 D may have a role in preventing overuse injury in young adults undertaking arduous physical training. © 2023 Crown copyright and The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR). This article is published with the permission of the Controller of HMSO and the King's Printer for Scotland.

[Stress injuries of bone in children and adolescents]. / Stressverletzungen des Knochens bei Kindern und Jugendlichen.

Stress injuries of bone in childhood and adolescence are the result of an imbalance between physical stress on the growing musculoskeletal system and its intrinsic resilience. Children who are very active in sports are particularly affected. The classical stress injuries mainly occur in the area of the lower leg, the metatarsus and the lower lumbar spine due to the disproportionate load on healthy bone; however, overuse syndromes can also occur in the area of the growth plates and possibly lead to growth plate disorders. The anamnesis usually shows stress-related pain that has existed for a long time without trauma. As part of the differential diagnosis, a stress injury must first be included in the considerations due to it being a rare entity. An X­ray examination can show the first signs of a stress reaction. In the event of a conspicuous periosteal reaction, a malignant event must also be considered. As a rule, the MRI examination is then groundbreaking and in some rare cases biopsies have to be considered. The treatment of stress injuries is usually conservative. Recurrences should be counteracted by exercise control.

Use of Smartphones as a Risk Factor for the Development of Morbidities in the Wrist and Fingers / Uso de smartphones como fator de risco para o desenvolvimento de morbidades no punho e nos dedos*

Abstract Objective To investigate the long-term use of smartphones as a risk factor for the development of morbidities in the wrist and fingers. Methods The present is a descriptive, exploratory study with a quantitative approach based on injury prevalence among one hundred smartphone users of a private university in the state of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil. We applied a semi-structured questionnaire and the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), as well as the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Finkelstein, Phalen, reverse Phalen, and Tinel signal tests on the wrist. Results The average of the sample was of 22.73 years, with a prevalence of single, right-handed female participants. Most of them had been using smartphones for 5 to 10 years, and 85% reported discomfort in the wrist and fingers while using the device, with numbness as the most prevalent symptom. Most clinical tests were negative, and the Finklestein test showed greater positivity. The BCTQ is composed of a symptom severity scale (S scale) and a functional status scale (F scale): the overall score on the S scale was of 1.61, indicating mild to moderate symptoms, and the F scale revealed that the symptoms did not affect functionality. Conclusion There was a significant correlation between the length of use of smartphones and discomfort in the wrist and fingers; as such, smartphones are a risk factor for the development of morbidities.

Resumo Objetivo Investigar o uso de smartphones em longo prazo como fator de risco para o desenvolvimento de morbidades no nível do punho e dos dedos. Métodos Realizou-se um estudo descritivo, exploratório, de abordagem quantitativa, para a obtenção de medidas de prevalência com cem acadêmicos usuários de smartphones de uma faculdade privada localizada no sertão de Pernambuco. Foram aplicados um questionário semiestruturado e o Questionário de Síndrome doTúnel do Carpo de Boston (Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire, BCTQ, na sigla em inglês), além da Escala Visual Analógica (EVA) e dos testes de Finkesltein, Phalen, Phalen reverso, e sinal de Tinel no punho. Resultados A idade média da amostra foi de 22,73 anos, com prevalência de solteiros, de destros, e do sexo feminino. O tempo de uso do smartphone indicado pela maioria dos participantes era entre 5 e 10 anos, e 85% da amostra relatou já ter sentido desconforto no punho e nos dedos durante o uso do aparelho, sendo a dormência o sintoma mais prevalente. Com relação aos testes clínicos, houve prevalência de resultados negativos, e o de Finklestein apresentou maior positividade. Quanto ao BCTQ, dividido em duas escalas, uma de gravidade dos sintomas (escala G) e uma de estado funcional (escala F), a média geral das pontuações foi de 1,61 na escala G, o que indica sintomas de leve a moderados, já a escala F revelou que os sintomas não afetavam a funcionalidade. Conclusão Foi possível observar uma correlação significativa entre o tempo de uso dos smartphones e a presença de desconforto no punho e nos dedos, o que indica que se trata de um fator de risco para o desenvolvimento de morbidades.

Futuros cirurgiões-dentistas canhotos graduandos da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia: perfil, dificuldades e dores osteomusculares / Future left-handed dentists graduating from the Federal University of Uberlândia: profile, difficulties and musculoskeletal pain

Os indivíduos canhotos necessitam de utensílios para concretização de suas atividades diárias, bem como, para o exercício da prática odontológica onde a escassez de equipamentos específicos pode refletir em desgaste corporal, com isso, o presente trabalho tem por objetivo identificar os estudantes canhotos do curso de Odontologia da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia além de identificar suas dificuldades, queixas e locais de dores osteomusculares nas atividades laboratoriais e clínicas. Métodos: Foram incluídos todos os alunos canhotos matriculados no ano de 2021. Foram aplicados questionários on line para coletar os dados dos alunos. Resultados: Foram tabulados e como resultados, encontrou-se que os canhotos representam 5,6% do total de alunos do curso de Odontologia, a maioria são mulheres (66,7%), com média de idade de 21 anos. O segundo período foi o que apresentou maior número de canhotos (25%). As atividades práticas do curso, estas foram cursadas por 91,7% dos entrevistados, que relataram com maior frequência usar a mão esquerda (62,5%), sentar na posição de 1 hora (20,8%) e ter maior dificuldade ao tratar o quadrante superior direito (45,8%). Os locais mais citados de dores osteomusculares após realizar essas atividades, foram: punhos e mãos (62,5%), parte inferior das costas (62,5%) e pescoço (58,3%). Conclusão: Os canhotos representam a minoria dos alunos e suas dificuldades são, a falta de estrutura física adequada e a incompreensão das pessoas ao redor. Em relação a queixa de dor ou desconforto, mãos, punhos, parte inferior das costas e pescoço foram os membros mais citados no estudo(AU)

Left-handed individuals need tools to carry out their daily activities, as well as for the exercise of dental practice where the scarcity of specific equipment can reflect on body wear, with this, the present work aims to identify left-handed students of the course of Dentistry at the Federal University of Uberlândia, in addition to identifying their difficulties, complaints and sites of musculoskeletal pain in laboratory and clinical activities. Methods: All left-handed students enrolled in the year 2021 were included, and three questionnaires were applied online to identify the profile of students and the difficulties encountered in laboratory and clinical practice. Results: They were tabulated and as a result, it was found that left-handers represent 5.6% of the total number of students in the Dentistry course, most of them are women (66.7%), with a mean age of 21 years. The second period was the one with the highest number of left-handers (25%). The practical activities of the course were carried out by 91.7% of the interviewees, who reported more frequently using their left hand (62.5%), sitting in the 1 o'clock position (20.8%) and having greater difficulty when treat the upper right quadrant (45.8%). The most cited sites of musculoskeletal pain after performing these activities were: wrists and hands (62.5%), lower back (62.5%) and neck (58.3%). Conclusion: Lefthanded people represent the minority of students, and their difficulties are the lack of adequate physical structure and the misunderstanding of the people around them. In relation to complaints of pain or discomfort, hands, wrists, lower back and neck were the most cited members in the study(AU)

Ambiente de trabalho seguro e sustentável: como a ergonomia de conscientização e participativa se aplica aos servidores públicos? / Safe, sustainable work environment: how awareness and participatory ergonomics can be applied to public servers? / Un entorno de trabajo seguro y sostenible: ¿cómo aplicar la sensibilización y la ergonomía participativa a los servidores públicos?

Introdução: As práticas ergonômicas de conscientização e de participação assumem importante papel na prevenção das doenças ocupacionais. Entretanto, os métodos utilizados pelos programas de prevenção das instituições e empresas visam a correção dos riscos ergonômicos, não observando o fator humano detentor da execução da tarefa. Objetivo: Analisar a utilização das Ergonomia de Conscientização e Participa- ção como programa de educação visando a prevenção primária e a conscientização dos riscos ergonômicos das lesões por esforço repetitivo (LER) e distúrbios osteomusculares relacionadas ao trabalho (DORT). Metodologia: Revisão crítica de literatura, sintetizando o embasamento teórico pertinente ao tema, com documentação técnica, normas, decretos, portarias e dados estatísticos atualizados de afastamento; formando, assim, à análise documental. Resultados e Discussão: Os dados estatísticos mostram a importância de uma mudança nos hábitos, nos programas e nas intervenções ergonômicas no ambiente laboral do trabalhador, visando minimizar os impactos socioeconômicos dos altos índices de afastamento para organizações, empresas privadas e, principalmente, serviços públicos de ensino superior devido a maior precariedade dos ambientes de trabalho. Práticas ergo- nômicas de conscientização e participação dos trabalhadores podem proporcionar uma melhora nos desconfortos do ambiente laboral. Ressalta-se a escassez de pesquisas que priorizem a relação custo-benefício e a eficácia a longo prazo na área de Ergonomia. Conclusões: Novas análises devem ser observadas para promover melhora da qualidade de vida do trabalhador, diminuição das perdas econômicas, contribuindo para um trabalho seguro, decente e sustentável como preconiza principalmente o Objetivo 8 da Agenda 2030 da Organização das Nações Unidas.

Introduction: Ergonomic awareness and participation practices play an im- portant role in the prevention of occupational diseases. However, the methods used by institutions and companies' prevention programs aim to correct ergonomic risks and do not observe the human factor responsible for carrying out the task. Purpose: To analyze the use of Participation and Awareness Ergonomics as an education program aimed at raising awareness of ergonomic risks for the prevention of repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD). Methodology: Critical literature review, summarizing the theoretical basis relevant to the topic, with technical documen- tation, norms, decrees, ordinances, and updated statistical data on leave; thus forming the documental analysis. Results and discussion: Statistical data show the importance of changing habits, programs, and ergonomic interventions in the work environment of the worker, in order to minimize the socioeconomic impacts of the high removal rates of organizations, private companies, and, mainly, public higher education due to more pre- carious work environments. Ergonomic practices of awareness and participation of work- ers can improve the work environment's discomfort. The lack of research that prioritizes the cost-benefit ratio and long-term effectiveness in Ergonomics is highlighted. Conclu- sions: New studies must promote a significant improvement of the quality of life of work- ers, reduction of economic losses and, thus contribute to a safe environment, decent and sustainable, as advocated by Objective 8 of the United Nations 2030 Agenda.

Introducción: Las prácticas de sensibilización y participación ergonómicas desempeñan un papel importante en la prevención de las enfermedades profesionales. Sin embargo, los métodos utilizados por los programas de prevención de instituciones y em- presas tienen como objetivo corregir los riesgos ergonómicos y no observan el factor hu- mano responsable de la realización de la tarea. Propósito: Analizar el uso de la Ergonomía de Participación y Concienciación como programa educativo dirigido a la concienciación de los riesgos ergonómicos para la prevención de las lesiones por esfuerzos repetitivos (LER) y los trastornos musculoesqueléticos de origen laboral (TME). Metodología: Re- visión lit-eratura crítica, resumiendo la base teórica relevante al tema, con documentación técnica, normas, decretos, ordenanzas, y datos estadísticos actualizados sobre bajas la- borales; conformando así el análisis documental. Resultados y discusión: Los datos es- tadísticos demuestran la importancia del cambio de hábitos, programas e intervenciones ergonómicas en el ambiente de trabajo del trabajador, para minimizar los impactos soci- oeconómicos de los altos índices de desvinculación de organizaciones, empresas privadas y, principalmente, de la enseñanza superior pública, debido a la mayor precariedad de los ambientes de trabajo. Práticas ergonómicas de conscientização e par-ticipação dos tra- balhadores podem melhorar a incomodidade do ambiente de trabalho. Se destaca la falta de re-investigación que priorice la relación costo-beneficio y la eficacia a largo plazo en Ergonomía. Conclusiones: Nuevos estudios deben promover una mejora significativa de la calidad de vida de los trabajadores, la reducción de las pérdidas económicas y, así contribuir a un entorno seguro, digno y sostenible, como propugna el Objetivo 8 de la Agenda 2030 de las Na-ciones Unidas.

Compliance compromises an interventional study on iron supplementation in female combatants.

INTRODUCTION: Low iron levels are related to overuse injuries, poor physical performance and cognitive impairments in female recruits. The aim of this study was to evaluate iron supplement compliance in female combatants during basic training, and its effect on haemoglobin (Hgb), ferritin and injuries. METHODS: 329 female recruits to light infantry units filled induction questionnaires regarding smoking status, previous overuse injuries and iron deficiency. Blood was drawn for Hgb and ferritin. Subjects with ferritin levels below 20 ng/mL were considered iron depleted and were prescribed a ferrous fumarate supplement. After 4 months of basic training, the subjects completed a follow-up questionnaire regarding overuse injuries, reasons for failure to complete basic training and compliance with iron supplementation. Blood tests were repeated. RESULTS: Mean ferritin levels declined during training (from 18.1±18.2 to 15.3±9.6, p=0.01). Compliance with iron supplementation was observed in 26 (26.3%) of the subjects. In compliant subjects, Hgb levels remained constant and ferritin levels increased by 2.9±5.4 (p=0.07). The main reasons for reported non-compliance were forgetfulness, 26 (35.6%), and gastrointestinal side effects, 17 (23.3%). Injuries during training were not found to be associated with iron status. Smokers had a significantly higher rate of reported injuries prior to training (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Ferritin levels decline during training. Compliance with iron supplementation is low. Iron supplementation has a significant effect on ferritin levels, even in the non-compliance group. Injuries were not related to iron status in this group. Further research is needed in order to clarify the most appropriate iron supplementation method.

Epidemiology of High Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) injuries in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: High intensity functional training (HIFT), usually called CrossFit, is a physical training that has gained much popularity in the past few years. The risk of acute and overuse injuries in HIFT is unclear. This study evaluated the incidence of injuries in HIFT, characterizing severity, location, and associated risk factors. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted between January and May 2021. HIFT practitioners were recruited through social media and answered an online questionnaire on training characteristics and injury history. RESULTS: A total of 606 subjects (264 male and 342 female) were included. The average age of the participants was 29.78 ± 7.14 years. The mean height was 169.60 ± 8.96 cm, and the mean body mass was 73.69 ± 13.11 kg. Overall, participants were involved in HIFT for an average of 25.36 ± 20.29 months. A total of 58.6% of participants took part in 5 to 6 training sessions per week, 31.7% practiced 5 to 6 h per week. 62.7% of the responders performed other physical activities in parallel, 98.2% performed warm-up before the training, and a formal cooldown was accomplished by 29.4% of participants. 6.8% of athletes followed individual worksheets. 45.9% of participants participated in competition. CONCLUSIONS: The overall rate of injuries was 3.51/1000 h. 59.2% of subjects experienced two or more injuries. The shoulder was involved in 21.3% of cases, lower back in 18.3%, and the knee in 13.4%. No difference was found in injury rate between males and females. Experienced athletes were more prone to injury compared to those who trained under 12 months. Approximately the half of injuries did not cause training interruption. No difference was found in injury rate between males and females. The purpose of the participant did not impact the injury rate, nor did the practice of warm-up and cooldown, the time of weekly training, the league and level of competition. Finally, the participation in other sports in parallel did not demonstrated association with the injury occurrence. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The present study was approved by the Ethics and Research Committee by Plataforma Brazil and follows the Resolution 466/2012/CNS/MS/CONEP.

Adolescent Wrist Pain.

Adolescence is a difficult time, both physically and emotionally. Rapid growth coupled with physical changes in the background of high levels of activity can be overwhelming. Meanwhile, unfamiliar life stressors coupled with undeveloped compensatory mechanisms can lead to overwhelming anxiety and emotional distress. Emotional factors can make injuries and overuse syndromes feel more catastrophic. Occasionally, an adolescent's emotional distress can manifest physically, without antecedent injury or physiologic cause. Understanding the psychological milieu is as important as understanding the disease processes that can affect adolescents if one hopes to manage these patients effectively.

E-cigarette aerosol impairs male mouse skeletal muscle force development and prevents recovery from injury.

To date, there has been a lag between the rise in E-cigarette use and an understanding of the long-term health effects. Inhalation of E-cigarette aerosol delivers high doses of nicotine, raises systemic cytokine levels, and compromises cardiopulmonary function. The consequences for muscle function have not been thoroughly investigated. The present study tests the hypothesis that exposure to nicotine-containing aerosol impairs locomotor muscle function, limits exercise tolerance, and interferes with muscle repair in male mice. Nicotine-containing aerosol reduced the maximal force produced by the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) by 30%-40% and, the speed achieved in treadmill running by 8%. Nicotine aerosol exposure also decreased adrenal and increased plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine levels, and these changes in catecholamines manifested as increased muscle and liver glycogen stores. In nicotine aerosol exposed mice, muscle regenerating from overuse injury only recovered force to 80% of noninjured levels. However, the structure of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) was not affected by e-cigarette aerosols. Interestingly, the vehicle used to dissolve nicotine in these vaping devices, polyethylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), decreased running speed by 11% and prevented full recovery from a lengthening contraction protocol (LCP) injury. In both types of aerosol exposures, cardiac left ventricular systolic function was preserved, but left ventricular myocardial relaxation was altered. These data suggest that E-cigarette use may have a negative impact on muscle force and regeneration due to compromised glucose metabolism and contractile function in male mice.NEW & NOTEWORTHY In male mice, nicotine-containing E-cigarette aerosol compromises muscle contractile function, regeneration from injury, and whole body running speeds. The vehicle used to deliver nicotine, propylene glycol, and vegetable glycerin, also reduces running speed and impairs the restoration of muscle function in injured muscle. However, the predominant effects of nicotine in this inhaled aerosol are evident in altered catecholamine levels, increased glycogen content, decreased running capacity, and impaired recovery of force following an overuse injury.

Factores de riscos ergonómicos e prevalência de distúrbios músculo- esqueléticos (Dme) em trabalhadores de escritórios / Ergonomic risk factors and prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (Msd) in office workers / Factores de riesgo ergonómicos y prevalencia de trastornos musculoesqueléticos (Tm) en trabajadores de oficina

Introdução: Os trabalhadores que exercem actividades de escritórios usando computadores como principal instrumento, estão sujeitos ao desenvolvimento de distúrbios músculo- esqueléticos devido a posição sentada adotada prolongadas horas nesses ambientes. Objectivo: Avaliar os fatores de riscos ergonómicos e a prevalência de distúrbios músculo esqueléticos em trabalhadores dos escritórios da empresa de segurança G4S Secure Solutions Moçambique. Métodos: Participaram do estudo 58 indivíduos de ambos os sexos, com idade compreendidas entre 20 e 55 anos. Foi usado uma ficha para o registo das conformidades ergonómicas dos materiais dos escritórios bem como avaliar a postura do trabalhador por meio de observação, posteriormente estimadas as probabilidades de ocorrência e a severidade dos riscos. Os dados relativos a ocorrência dos DME foi obtida com recurso ao questionário Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Resultados: Os principais riscos ergonómicos observados foram o posicionamento material informático em relação ao trabalhador, a postura destes durante o trabalho e por fim o estado do mobiliário. E os relacionados com ajustamento do monitor e a postura da cabeça e pescoço foram os que tiveram maior índice de severidade. A maioria relatou ter sentido desconforto músculo-esquelético em pelo menos uma região do corpo, tendo grande parte se queixado das regiões cervical, lombar, punhos/mão e região torácica. Conclusões: Com base nos resultados da presente pesquisa pode se afirmar que nos escritórios da empresa estudada existem riscos ergonómicos a ter em conta, principalmente os relacionados com a organização de material do trabalho e a postura dos trabalhadores sendo evidente pela elevada prevalência de distúrbios músculo-esquelético.

Introduction: Workers who perform office activities using computers as their main instrument are exposed to the development of musculoskeletal disorders due to the sitting position adopted for prolonged hours in these environments. Objective: To assess ergonomic risk factors and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in office workers of the security company G4S Secure Solutions Mozambique. Methods: 58 individuals of both sexes participated in the study, aged between 20 and 55 years. A form was used to record the ergonomic compliance of office materials as well as to evaluate the posture of the worker through observation, later estimating the probabilities of occurrence and the severity of the risks. Data on the occurrence of MSDs was obtained using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Results: The main ergonomic risks observed were the positioning of the computer material in relation to the worker, their posture during work and, finally, the condition of the furniture. And those related to monitor adjustment and head and neck posture were the ones with the highest severity index. Most reported having felt musculoskeletal discomfort in at least one region of the body, with most complaining of cervical, lumbar, wrists/hand and thoracic regions. Conclusions: Based on the results of the present research, it can be stated that in the offices of the studied company there are ergonomic risks to be taken into account, mainly those related to the organization of work material and the posture of the workers, which is evident due to the high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders.

Introducción: Los trabajadores que realizan actividades de oficina utilizando ordenadores como herramienta principal, están sujetos al desarrollo de trastornos musculoesqueléticos debido a la posición sentada adoptada durante horas prolongadas en estos entornos. Objetivo: Evaluar los factores de riesgo ergonómico y la prevalencia de los trastornos musculoesqueléticos en los trabajadores de oficina de la empresa de seguridad G4S Secure Solutions Mozambique. Métodos: 58 individuos de ambos sexos, con edades comprendidas entre los 20 y los 55 años, participaron en el estudio. Se utilizó un formulario para registrar las conformidades ergonómicas de los materiales de oficina, así como para evaluar la postura del trabajador a través de la observación, posteriormente se estimó la probabilidad de ocurrencia y la severidad de los riesgos. Los datos relativos a la aparición de EMD se obtuvieron mediante el Cuestionario Musculoesquelético Nórdico. Resultados: Los principales riesgos ergonómicos observados fueron la colocación del material informático en relación con el trabajador, su postura durante el trabajo y, por último, el estado del mobiliario. Y los relacionados con el ajuste del monitor y la postura de la cabeza y el cuello fueron los que presentaron el mayor índice de gravedad. La mayoría declaró haber sentido molestias musculoesqueléticas en al menos una región del cuerpo, y la mayoría se quejaba de las regiones cervical, lumbar, muñeca/mano y torácica. Conclusiones: En base a los resultados de esta investigación se puede afirmar que en las oficinas de la empresa estudiada existen riesgos ergonómicos a tener en cuenta, especialmente los relacionados con la organización del material de trabajo y la postura de los trabajadores quedando patente por la alta prevalencia de trastornos musculoesqueléticos.

Manual Therapy Facilitates Homeostatic Adaptation to Bone Microstructural Declines Induced by a Rat Model of Repetitive Forceful Task.

The effectiveness of manual therapy in reducing the catabolic effects of performing repetitive intensive force tasks on bones has not been reported. We examined if manual therapy could reduce radial bone microstructural declines in adult female Sprague-Dawley rats performing a 12-week high-repetition and high-force task, with or without simultaneous manual therapy to forelimbs. Additional rats were provided 6 weeks of rest after task cessation, with or without manual therapy. The control rats were untreated or received manual therapy for 12 weeks. The untreated TASK rats showed increased catabolic indices in the radius (decreased trabecular bone volume and numbers, increased osteoclasts in these trabeculae, and mid-diaphyseal cortical bone thinning) and increased serum CTX-1, TNF-α, and muscle macrophages. In contrast, the TASK rats receiving manual therapy showed increased radial bone anabolism (increased trabecular bone volume and osteoblast numbers, decreased osteoclast numbers, and increased mid-diaphyseal total area and periosteal perimeter) and increased serum TNF-α and muscle macrophages. Rest, with or without manual therapy, improved the trabecular thickness and mid-diaphyseal cortical bone attributes but not the mineral density. Thus, preventive manual therapy reduced the net radial bone catabolism by increasing osteogenesis, while rest, with or without manual therapy, was less effective.

[Treatment and diagnosis of overuse injury in the Achilles tendon]. / ABC om Kronisk hälsene­smärta ­ diagnos och behandling.

Achilles tendinopathy is a common overuse injury, especially among runners. It should be divided into midportion Achilles tendinopathy and insertional Achilles tendinopathy, as the treatments are different. Achilles tendinopathy is a clinical diagnosis, which includes a combination of pain, swelling and stiffness. If pain is located 2-6 cm above the insertion to the calcaneus, it is considered a midportion tendinopathy. Pain located more distally, close to the insertion, is defined as insertional tendinopathy. Both midportion and insertional Achilles tendinopathies are primarily treated with physiotherapy during three to six months. Exercise has the highest level of evidence and is more successful in midportion Achilles tendinopathy. Insertional tendinopathy more often requires surgical treatment, with removal of bony exostosis and chronically inflamed bursa.

Early Sport Specialization in College Athletes and the Impact on Health-Related Quality of Life: A Critically Appraised Topic.

CLINICAL SCENARIO: Youth athletes may specialize in a sport of their choosing, or based on external pressures, to pursue elite status in that sport. Current evidence shows an association between highly specialized athletes and an increase in injuries as well as a connection between injury and lower health-related quality of life (HRQOL). CLINICAL QUESTION: In college athletes, do early sport specialization characteristics (ie, age at specialization and degree of specialization) impact current HRQOL? SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS: The literature was searched for studies that investigated the age of specialization (early vs late) or degree of specialization (high, moderate, and low) and the impact on HRQOL. (1) The search returned 6 possible studies related to the clinical question. Three of the studies met the inclusion criteria and were used for this appraisal. (2) Two of the 3 included studies reported that highly specialized athletes noted lower HRQOL. (3) One study found there to be no significant difference in HRQOL between athletes who specialized early versus late but did find those who specialized early to have a greater incidence of injuries that required surgery. CLINICAL BOTTOM LINE: There is moderate evidence that early sport specialization is associated with lower HRQOL compared with late sport specialization. It is important to educate athletes, parents, and coaches on the potential detriments that are associated with early sport specialization to allow stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding participation. STRENGTH OF RECOMMENDATION: Grade B evidence exists to support the idea that early, intensive sport specialization may be associated with decreased HRQOL in current college athletes.

Power-assisted Pedicle Screw Technique Protects Against Risk of Surgeon Overuse Injury: A Comparative Electromyography Study of the Neck and Upper Extremity Muscle Groups in a Simulated Surgical Environment.

STUDY DESIGN: Cadaveric. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to quantify the amplitude and duration of surgeons' muscle exertion from pedicle cannulation to screw placement using both manual and power-assisted tools in a simulated surgical environment using surface electromyography (EMG). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: A survey of Scoliosis Research Society members reported rates of neck pain, rotator cuff disease, lateral epicondylitis, and cervical radiculopathy at 3 ×, 5 ×, 10 ×, and 100â€Š× greater than the general population. The use of power-assisted tools in spine surgery to facilitate pedicle cannulation through screw placement during open posterior fixation surgery may reduce torque on the upper limb and risk of overuse injury. METHODS: Pedicle preparation and screw placement was performed from T4-L5 in four cadavers by two board-certified spine surgeons using both manual and power-assisted techniques. EMG recorded muscle activity from the flexor carpi radialis, extensor carpi radialis, biceps, triceps, deltoid, upper trapezius, and neck extensors. Muscle activity was reported as a percentage of the maximum voluntary exertion of each muscle group (%MVE) and muscle exertion was linked to low- (0-20% MVE), moderate- (20%-45% MVE), high- (45%-70% MVE) and highest- (70%-100% MVE) risk of overuse injury based on literature. RESULTS: Use of power-assisted tools for pedicle cannulation through screw placement maintains average muscle exertion at low risk for overuse injury for every muscle group. Conversely with manual technique, the extensor carpi radialis, biceps, upper trapezius and neck extensors operate at levels of exertion that risk overuse injury for 50% to 92% of procedure time. Powerassisted tools reduce average muscle exertion of the biceps, triceps, and deltoid by upwards of 80%. CONCLUSION: Power-assisted technique protects against risk of overuse injury. Elevated muscle exertion of the extensor carpi radialis, biceps, upper trapezius, and neck extensors during manual technique directly correlate with surgeons' self-reported diagnoses of lateral epicondylitis, rotator cuff disease, and cervical myelopathy.Level of Evidence: N/A.

Investigation of ligament, bone, synovial and plica pathologies accompanied by common extensor tendon in patients with lateral overuse syndrome of the elbow using magnetic resonance imaging.

BACKGROUND: Tendinosis in the common extensor tendon and accompanying ligament, bone, and plica abnormalities can be observed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). PURPOSE: To determine whether there is a difference between accompanying abnormalities according to the degree of common extensor tendon injury. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients who underwent 1.5-T MRI tests with a prediagnosis of lateral overuse syndrome were retrospectively reviewed, and 56 patients who had an injury in the common extensor tendon (CET) were included. The degree of tendon and ligament injury, muscle signal change, bone marrow signal change, presence of joint effusion, and morphological features in the presence of plica were evaluated via MRI examinations of the elbow. RESULTS: Overall, 32, 16, and eight patients had mild, moderate, and severe CET damage, respectively. As the severity of CET damage increased, the presence of joint effusion, and the presence and degree of damage to the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) and radial collateral ligament (RCL) increased. The radiohumeral (RH) plica area was significantly larger in the group with mild CET damage. There was no statistically significant correlation between the severity of CET damage and the end of RH plica with a blind-end, coverage of one-third or more of the radius, its signal, thickness, and presence of olecranon fold. CONCLUSION: As the severity of CET injury increases, damage to the LUCL, RCL, and the presence of effusion in the joint increases. RH plica should be evaluated in terms of concomitant pathology in patients with mild CET injuries on MRI.

Reabilitação profissional e retorno ao trabalho no Brasil: avanços, retrocessos e aspectos epidemiológicos / Vocational rehabilitation and return to work in Brazil: advances, setbacks and epidemiological aspects

OBJETIVOS: (i) Analisar aspectos atuais do serviço de reabilitação profissional da Previdência Social no Brasil; (ii) Analisar a tendência de incidência acumulada de indicadores do serviço de reabilitação profissional da Previdência Social no Brasil, entre 2007 e 2016; (iii) Avaliar a prevalência de trabalhadores reabilitados pelo INSS empregados no mercado formal brasileiro, segundo características sociodemográficas e ocupacionais, em 2018; (iv) Analisar fatores sociodemográficos e ocupacionais associados ao tempo de permanência no trabalho entre os trabalhadores com incapacidade por LER/Dort reabilitados pela previdência social brasileira. MÉTODOS: Esta tese está dividida em quatro manuscritos. MANUSCRITO 1: Estudo qualitativo com análise documental de manuais de procedimentos da reabilitação profissional do INSS, ofícios institucionais da previdência social e dos sindicatos dos trabalhadores previdenciários. MANUSCRITO 2: Estudo ecológico a partir de dados secundários agregados, de acesso público, foram calculadas as incidências acumuladas de indicadores de RP. Nas análises foram realizados modelos de regressão linear generalizada de Prais-Winsten para estimativa das tendências, e obteve-se a variação percentual anual e os respectivos intervalos de confiança de 95%. MANUSCRITO 3: Estudo transversal com dados de 45.274 trabalhadores reabilitados obtidos da Relação Anual de Informações Sociais do ano de 2018. A variável dependente refere-se à prevalência de trabalhador reabilitado empregado no mercado formal em 31 de dezembro de 2018. As variáveis independentes tratam de características sociodemográficas e do trabalho. Modelos de regressão de Poisson avaliaram razões de prevalência e intervalos de confiança. MANUSCRITO 4: Estudo longitudinal com 680 trabalhadores reabilitados com incapacidade por LER/Dort que retornaram ao mercado formal de trabalho no Brasil entre 2014 e 2018. A análise de sobrevivência foi realizada para identificar os fatores que influenciam a permanência no trabalho. RESULTADOS: MANUSCRITO 1: as rápidas alterações realizadas na estrutura do INSS e no programa de reabilitação profissional prejudicaram as conquistas que fomentaram o início do desenvolvimento de um programa de reabilitação profissional integral e intersetorial, a fim de favorecer um retorno real e saudável ao trabalho. MANUSCRITO 2: A incidência acumulada média de encaminhamento para o serviço de RP foi de 37,16 por 1.000 benefícios por incapacidade temporária e apresentou uma tendência de declínio -6,92% (IC95%: -8,38; -5,43). A incidência acumulada média de casos admitidos no serviço de RP foi de 57,34 por 100 casos encaminhados e apresentou tendência de aumento 3,31% (IC95%: 1,13; 5,53). A incidência acumulada média de reabilitação foi de 57,43 por 100 casos admitidos e permaneceu estável durante o período de estudo -2,84 (IC95%: -5,87; 0,29). MANUSCRITO 3: No Brasil, 80% de trabalhadores reabilitados que ingressaram no mercado formal estavam com o vínculo empregatício ativo em dezembro de 2018. Houve maior prevalência entre os homens, pessoas na faixa etária de 40 a 49 anos, com raça/cor da pele branca, com um a oito anos de estudo e com renda média anual entre 2,01 a 4 salários mínimos. O tipo de vínculo empregatício mais prevalente foi o celetista com prazo indeterminado. O grupo ocupacional de trabalhadores em serviços de manutenção e reparação e o ramo de atividades de água, esgoto e atividades de gestão de resíduos e descontaminação foram as mais frequentes entre os reabilitados que estão inseridos no mercado formal. MANUSCRITO 4: A maioria dos participantes eram da região Sudeste (41,18%), do sexo masculino (62,35%), trabalhavam em empresas de grande porte (44,41%), em grupo ocupacional de trabalhadores de serviços administrativos (70,44%) e estavam inseridos no ramo de atividade econômica de transporte, armazenagem e correio (52,35%). A demissão do emprego ocorreu para 29,26% dos trabalhadores. A duração média de permanência no emprego foi de 56 meses. Fatores associados ao menor tempo de emprego foram ser das regiões Sudeste (HR: 2,78; IC95% 1,12 6,91) e Sul (HR: 2,68; IC95% 1,04 6,90), inseridos em ramos de atividades econômicas de transporte, armazenagem e correio (HR: 2,57; IC95% 1,07 6,17), e de atividades financeiras de seguros e serviços relacionados (HR: 2,70; IC95% 1,05 6,89). Conclusões: A ineficiência do serviço de reabilitação profissional brasileiro é evidente. Mais do que nunca a necessidade de uma política intersetorial eficaz de reabilitação profissional e retorno ao trabalho mostra-se indispensável para favorecer um retorno ao trabalho sustentável e saudável aos trabalhadores. Ademais, é necessário repensar estratégias e ações governamentais que diminuam as desigualdades ao retorno ao trabalho após a reabilitação profissional.

AIM: To analyze current aspects of the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) professional rehabilitation service in Brazil; To analyze the trend of cumulative incidence of indicators of the Brazilian Social Security vocational rehabilitation service, between 2007 and 2016; To assess the prevalence of workers rehabilitated by the INSS employed in the Brazilian formal market, according to sociodemographic and occupational characteristics in 2018; To analyze sociodemographic and occupational factors associated with the length of stay at work among workers with cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs) disability rehabilitated by the Brazilian social security system. METHODS: This thesis is divided into three manuscripts. MANUSCRIPT 1: Qualitative study with documental analysis of INSS vocational rehabilitation (VR) procedures manual, institutional offices of social security and social security workers unions. MANUSCRIPT 2: Ecological study from public aggregated secondary data, the cumulative incidences of VR indicators were calculated. Generalized linear regression models of Prais-Winsten were used to estimate trends, the annual percentage variation and respective 95% confidence intervals were obtained. MANUSCRIPT 3: Cross-sectional study with data from 45,274 rehabilitated workers obtained from the Annual Social Information List for the year 2018. The dependent variable refers to the prevalence of rehabilitated workers employed in the formal market on December 31, 2018. The independent variables are sociodemographic characteristics and work. Poisson regression models evaluated prevalence ratios and confidence intervals. MANUSCRIPT 4: A longitudinal study with 680 workers rehabilitated with disability due CTDs who returned to the formal job market in Brazil between 2014 and 2018. Survival analysis was performed to identify the factors influencing permanence at work. RESULTS: MANUSCRIPT 1: the rapid changes made in the structure of INSS and vocational rehabilitation program undermined the achievements that fostered the beginning of the development of a comprehensive and intersectorial VR, in order to favor a real and healthy return to work. MANUSCRIPT 2: The mean cumulative incidence of referral to the RP service was 37.16 per 1,000 temporary disability benefits and showed a declining trend of -6.92% (95%CI: -8.38; -5.43). The mean cumulative incidence of cases admitted to the RP service was 57.34 per 100 cases referred and showed an upward trend of 3.31% (95%CI: 1.13; 5.53). The mean cumulative incidence of rehabilitation was 57.43 per 100 cases admitted and remained stable during the study period -2.84 (95%CI: -5.87; 0.29). MANUSCRIPT 3: In Brazil, 80% of rehabilitated workers who entered the formal market had an active employment relationship in December 2018. There was higher prevalence among men, people aged between 40 and 49 years, white race/skin color, one to eight years of schooling and an average annual income between 2.01 and 4 minimum wages. The most prevalent type of employment relationship was those in formal employment with an indefinite term. Workers from maintenance and repair services and the branch of activities of water, sewage and waste management and decontamination activities were the most frequent occupational group among the rehabilitated who were inserted in the formal market. MANUSCRIPT 4: Most participants were from the Southeast region (41.18%), males (62.35%), worked in large companies (44.41%), belonging to an occupational group of administrative service workers (70.44%) and working in the transportation, storage and mail sectors (52.35%). The dismissal of the job occurred for 29.26% of the workers. The average duration of employment was 56 months. Factors associated with shorter length of employment are: workers from the Southeast (HR: 2.78; IC95% 1.12 6.91) and South (HR: 2.68; IC95% 1.04 6.90) regions of Brazil, those working in transportation, storage and mail (HR: 2.57; IC95% 1.07 6.17), financial activities of insurance and related services (HR: 2.70; IC95% 1.05 6.89). Conclusions: The inefficiency of the Brazilian vocational rehabilitation service is evident and, more than ever, the need for an effective intersectorial policy for vocational rehabilitation and return to work is essential to favor a sustainable and healthy return to work for workers. Furthermore, it is necessary to rethink government strategies and actions to reduce inequalities when returning to work after vocational rehabilitation.

Effectiveness of an educative ergonomic plan in reducing musculo-skeletal disorders among dental practitioners / Efetividade de um plano ergonômico educativo na redução de distúrbios osteormusculares entre dentistas

Objective: Work related musculo skeletal disorders (WMSD) are very common among dental practitioners who use precise hand-wrist motions and prolonged static postures. The aim of this study was to develop an educative ergonomic plan and test its effectiveness in reducing symptoms of musculo-skeletal disorders among dental practitioners. Material and Methods: This study was conducted on a random sample of 50 dental practitioners of both genders (25 male, 25 female) practising for more than 4 years in urban Bengaluru, India and showing symptoms of neck pain, back pain or wrist pain. In the first round of the questionnaire data was collected from all 50 dentists. Next an educative ergonomic plan was developed which included simple exercises and recommendations in the form of do's and don'ts. The study population were asked to follow the guidelines given and perform the exercises given in the poster daily for a period of 3 months. Then, the questions were again asked. The differences in responses during the first stage and second stage were analyzed. Results: The use of the ergonomic plan led to a statistically significant improvement in certain ergonomic practises such as practise of changing their positions during clinical practice, keeping shoulders and arm at correct level while working and keeping instruments within hand reach. There was a statistically significant reduction in pain levels after the use of the ergonomic plan. Conclusion: The ergonomic plan in the form of recommendations and exercises were an effective tool in improving ergonomic practises and reducing the symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders among dental practitioners. (AU)

Objetivo: Distúrbios osteomusculares relacionados ao trabalho (DORT) são muito comuns entre os dentistas que usam movimentos precisos de mão e punho e posturas estáticas prolongadas. O objetivo deste estudo foi desenvolver um plano ergonômico educativo e testar sua eficácia na redução de sintomas de distúrbios osteomusculares em dentistas. Material e Métodos: Este estudo foi realizado em uma amostra aleatória de 50 dentistas de ambos os sexos (25 homens, 25 mulheres) trabalhando há mais de 4 anos na área urbana de Bengaluru, Índia e apresentando sintomas de dor no pescoço, dor nas costas ou dor no punho. Na primeira etapa do questionário foram coletados dados de todos os 50 dentistas. Em seguida, foi desenvolvido um plano ergonômico educativo que incluía exercícios simples e recomendações na forma de fazer e não fazer. Os participantes foram solicitados a seguir as orientações dadas e realizar os exercícios indicados no pôster diariamente por um período de 3 meses. Em seguida, as perguntas foram feitas novamente. Foram analisadas as diferenças nas respostas durante a primeira etapa e a segunda etapa. Resultados: A utilização do plano ergonômico levou a uma melhora estatisticamente significativa em algumas práticas ergonômicas, como a prática de mudar de posição durante o atendimento clínico, manter ombros e braços no nível correto durante o trabalho e manter os instrumentos ao alcance das mãos. Houve redução estatisticamente significativa dos níveis de dor após a utilização do plano ergonômico. Conclusão: O plano ergonômico na forma de recomendações e exercícios foi uma ferramenta eficaz na melhoria das práticas ergonômicas e na redução dos sintomas de distúrbios osteomusculares entre os cirurgiões-dentistas. (AU)