[Regularities of acupoint compatibility and application characteristics of methods of needling and moxibustion in the treatment of ankle sprain based on complex network analysis].

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the compatibility regularities of acupoints and the application characteristics of needling-moxibustionmethods in the treatment of ankle sprain by using complex network technology, so as to provide the basis and treatment ideas. METHODS: The clinical research articles on acupuncture treatment of ankle joint sprain published from November 2011 to November 2021 were retrieved from databases of CNKI, Wanfang Data knowledge service platform, VIP information Chinese journal service platform and PubMed by using key words of "acupuncture""moxibustion" "acupuncture and moxibustion" "ankle injury" "ankle sprain" "injured ankle" and "syndesmotic injuries". After screening these articles according to our inclusion and exclusion criteria, a database of acupuncture treatment of ankle sprain was established. Then, analysis on the occurrence frequency of acupoints and their related meridians, and methods of needling manipulation, and the association rule analysis (quantitative analysis) about the closeness between acupoints, and the degree of support and confidence coefficient were conducted for acquiring the acupoint combinations with higher correlation in the compatibility using Apriori algorithm after modeling (with IBM SPSS Modeler18.0 software). Gephi 0.9.2 software was used to make complex network analysis, for which "k-core hierarchical analysis" and "community analysis" were used as the methods to analyze the network structure of acupoints, and the confidence value was used as the index to measure the importance of acupoints. RESULTS: A total of 201 articles meeting the criteria were collected, including 196 articles in Chinese and 5 in English. A total of 236 acupuncture prescriptions were extracted, involving 61 acupoints, with a total frequency of occurrence being 846. The top 10 acupoints were Ashi point, Kunlun (BL60), Jiexi (ST41), Qiuxu (GB40), Shenmai (BL62), Yanglingquan (GB34), Taixi (KI3), Zhaohai (KI6), Xuanzhong (GB39) and Shangqiu (SP5), with the occurrence frequency being 109, 79, 70, 68, 63, 59, 53, 52, 37 and 34, respectively. The results of descriptive analysis showed that the top 5 meridians were Gallbladder Meridian of Foot-shaoyang, Bladder Meridian of Foot-taiyang, Kidney Meridian of Foot-shaoyin, Stomach Meridian of Foot-yangming and Spleen Meridian of Foot-taiyin, with the frequency being 181, 153, 116, 105 and 53, respectively. Complex network analysis displayed that after "k-core hierarchical analysis" and "Community division", two communities were reserved, mainly involving 15 core acupoints such as Ahshi point, GB40, ST14, BL62, GB34, KI6, BL60, KI3, GB39, Zusanli (ST36), SP5; Taichong (LR3), Zulinqi (GB41), Sanyinjiao (SP6) and Rangu (KI2). The results of association rule analysis showed that the most relevant acupoint combination is "BL60-ST41" (support degree 34.83％), followed by "BL60-KI3" (support degree 26.37%), reflecting the principle of selection of local acupoint for ankle sprain. The therapeutic methods are filiform needle acupuncture, and the reducing technique and uniform reinforcing and reducing manipulation are the most commonly used approaches, but the reinforcing method is rarely used. CONCLUSION: In the treatment of ankle sprain, local acupoints and Ashi points are mainly used, in combination with reducing or uniform reinforcing and reducing manipulations, as well as the method of needling and moxibustion, which provides a good reference for clinical practice.

Short-Term Effect of Manual Therapy & Taping on Subacute Ankle Sprains with Potential Syndesmotic Sprain: A Case Series.

STUDY DESIGN: Case Series. BACKGROUND: Syndesmotic ankle sprains can occur in up to 17% of ankle trauma and can lead to long-term disability. This study describes the management of seven patients with subacute, high-grade ankle sprains with concerns of concurrent syndesmotic strain utilizing manual therapy and rigid sports taping. METHODS: Seven active duty military members with clinically diagnosed, high-grade ankle sprains and concern for syndesmotic sprain participated in this case series. All patients received multi-modal treatment consisting of manual therapy, rigid sports taping, progressive exercises, and proprioceptive training. Decrease in Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) following manual therapy and taping treatment, number of sessions before discharge, and the Global Rating of Change (GROC) at discharge were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: All patients demonstrated an immediate decrease in NPRS following treatment on average of 5 points (range, 3-8 points) with a functional asterisk sign. The improvement in pain and function was maintained until the next treatment session with a mean GROC score of +3. The mean time until recovery was 5.4 weeks (range, 1-8 weeks). DISCUSSION: A multimodal approach for patients diagnosed clinically with high-grade ankle sprains and concern for syndesmotic sprain was useful to immediately reduce pain and improve function, and improvements were maintained throughout the duration of care. This study is the first to assess a combination of manual therapy and rigid sports taping for the treatment of suspected syndesmotic ankle sprains, and more stringent research is needed to validate the findings. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapy, 4.

Complex regional pain syndrome type II caused by iatrogenic lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve injury: A case report.

RATIONALE: Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a painful condition classified as type I or II depending on the absence or presence of nerve injury, respectively. Injury to the lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve (LDCN), a branch of the sural nerve, is a rare occurrence observed after a sprain or procedures conducted on the lateral side of the ankle. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 38-year-old female, who had undergone prolotherapy for a sprain in the lateral side of the left ankle 3 months ago, presented with persistent causalgia and dysesthesia around the injection site. DIAGNOSIS: An electrodiagnostic study was conducted, which confirmed that the patient had peripheral neuropathy of the left LDCN. Considering the digital infrared thermal imaging and three-phase bone scan findings and the clinical presentation, the condition was diagnosed as CRPS type II due to iatrogenic LDCN injury according to the Budapest diagnostic criteria for CRPS. INTERVENTIONS: The patient was treated with steroid pulse therapy, physical therapy, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, as well as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, pregabalin, and tricyclic antidepressants. OUTCOMES: After 1 month of treatment, allodynia of the left foot persisted, but the pain reduced from 6 points to 3 points on the numeric rating scale. Partial recovery of amplitude and conduction velocity was confirmed in the follow-up electrodiagnostic study. LESSONS: LDCN injury should be considered in patients who complain of persistent lateral ankle and foot paresthesia or pain after sprain or procedures performed on the lateral side of the ankle. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to a good prognosis when the LDCN injury has progressed to CRPS.

Effectiveness of Mobilization of the Talus and Distal Fibula in the Management of Acute Lateral Ankle Sprain.

OBJECTIVE: Distal fibular mobilization with movement (MWM), with and without a posterior gliding fibular tape, and anteroposterior mobilization of the talus (MOB) are widely used to treat acute lateral ankle sprains. The purpose of this study was to investigate the short-term and long-term relative effectiveness of these techniques. METHODS: In this double-blind randomized controlled trial, 45 amateur soccer players with acute (<72 hours) lateral ankle sprain were randomly allocated to 6 sessions (3/wk within the first 2 weeks) of either MWM, MWM with tape (MWMtape), or MOB. All participants also received general advice, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, edema draining massage, and a program of proprioception exercises. Participant ratings of function on the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure and Patient Global Impression of Improvement Scale were the primary outcomes measured over 52 weeks. Secondary outcomes were ankle pain, pressure pain threshold, range of motion, volume, and strength. RESULTS: MWM and MWMtape were equally effective and participants demonstrated greater function on the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure at 12 and 52 weeks when compared with those receiving MOB; however, the latter demonstrated superior function at 2 weeks. No differences between groups were observed for Patient Global Impression of Improvement Scale or any of the secondary outcomes. CONCLUSION: There are limited differences in the short term among techniques, with the exception of better sport function with MOB. Over the longer term, the distal fibular MWM is most effective to achieve activities of daily living and sport function when added to usual physical therapy care. The addition of a posterior gliding fibular tape provides no additional benefit. IMPACT: Distal fibular mobilization with movement may be the most appropriate choice of treatment for acute lateral ankle sprain to achieve long-term activities of daily living and sport function. In the short term, anteroposterior mobilization of the talus offers greater improvement in sport function. The use of fibular tape provides no added benefit as an adjunct to a treatment that includes distal fibular mobilization with movement.

Effectiveness and safety of warm needle acupuncture on lumbar muscles strain: A protocol for systematic review and meta analysis.

BACKGROUND: Lumbar muscle strain (LMS) is the most common orthopedic syndrome, with high incidence globally and lingering disease, which seriously affects patients' work efficiency and quality of life. Warm needle acupuncture (WNA) is a treatment method combining acupuncture technology with warm and medicinal effect of moxibustion. It has outstanding curative effect and wide range of treatment, especially in the treatment of pain diseases. We aim to collect clinical evidence and demonstrate the efficacy and safety of WNA on LMS. METHODS/DESIGN: We will search the following database sources for the randomized controlled trials: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), Web of Science, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (TCTRP), Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure Database (CNKI), Chinese Scientific Journals Database (VIP), and the Wanfang Database.All randomized controlled trials of WNA for lumbar muscle strain (LMS) in the above database will be considered for inclusion, and high-quality articles will be screened for data extraction and analysis, to summarize the therapeutic effect of WNA on LMS patients. RESULT: This study will provide a rational synthesis of current evidences for warm needle acupuncture on lumbar muscle strain. CONCLUSION: The conclusion of this study will provide evidence to judge the effectiveness and safety of WNA on LMS. TRIAL REGISTRATION: INPLASY2020120100 (DOI number: 10.37766/inplasy2020.12.0100).

The effectiveness of acupuncture at Yaotongdian (EX-UE 7) for acute lumbar sprain: A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Acupuncture at Yaotongdian (EX-UE 7) is increasingly used in acute lumbar sprain (ALS), and many studies have published that it is effective in the treatment of ALS. However, it is controversy if acupuncture at (EX-UE 7) can provide an evidence-based clinical benefit in the ALS population. METHODS: We will go through 8 databases, and conduct a systematic review of acupuncture on (EX-UE 7) and health-related outcomes in ALS patients according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews. The primary objective is to assess the impact of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines on clinical outcomes relevant to ALS patients, such as effective rate, life-quality evaluation, and adverse events. Cochrane Risk Assessment Tool will be used to assess the quality of eligible studies according to the Cochrane handbook. RESULTS: The results of this systematic review will provide a synthesis of current evidence of Acupuncture at Yaotongdian (EX-UE 7) and we have a specific opportunity to determine the efficacy and safety of it. CONCLUSION: This study will explore whether or not acupuncture on (EX-UE 7) can be used as one of the non-drug therapies to prevent or treat ALS. REGISTRATION NUMBER: 10.17605/OSF.IO/29QV7 (https://osf.io/29qv7/).

The effectiveness of mobilization with movement on pain, balance and function following acute and sub acute inversion ankle sprain - A randomized, placebo controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the effect of mobilization with movement (MWM) on pain, ankle mobility and function in patients with acute and sub-acute grade I and II inversion ankle sprain. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized placebo controlled trial. SETTING: A general hospital. SUBJECTS: 32 adults with inversion ankle sprain. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcome was pain intensity on an 11 point Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) with higher score indicating greater pain intensity. Ankle disability identified by the Foot and Ankle Disability index (FADI) with higher score indicating lower disability, functional ankle dorsiflexion range, pressure pain threshold, and dynamic balance measured with the Y balance test were secondary outcomes. RESULTS: Thirty participants completed the study. At each follow-up point, significant differences were found between groups favouring those receiving MWM for all variables. Pain intensity showed a mean difference of 1.7 points (95% confidence interval, 1.4 to 2.1) and 0.9 points (95% confidence interval, 0.5 to 1.3) at one and six-months follow-up respectively. Benefits were also shown for FADI, ankle mobility, pressure pain threshold and balance. CONCLUSION: This study provides preliminary data for the benefits of MWM for acute and sub-acute ankle sprain in terms of pain, ankle mobility, disability and balance.

Hydrotherapy with hydrogen-rich water compared with RICE protocol following acute ankle sprain in professional athletes: a randomized non-inferiority pilot trial.

We analysed the effects of an experimental novel protocol of intensive hydrotherapy with hydrogen-rich water (HRW) on injury recovery in athletic men who suffered an acute ankle sprain (AAS) and compared it with a RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation). Professional athletes (age 23.7 ± 4.0 years; weight 78.6 ± 5.7 kg, height 182.5 ± 4.3 cm; professional experience 5.9 ± 3.9 years) who incurred AAS during a sport-related activity were randomly assigned immediately after the injury to either hydrogen group (n = 9) or a conventional RICE treatment group (n = 9). Hydrogen group received six 30-min ankle baths with HRW throughout the first 24 h post-injury, with hydrotherapy administered every 4 hours during the intervention period. RICE group stood off the injured leg, with ice packs administered for 20 min every 3 hours, with the injured ankle compressed with an elastic bandage for 24 hours and elevated at all possible times above the level of the heart. HRW was equivalent to RICE protocol to reduce ankle swelling (2.1 ± 0.9% vs. 1.6 ± 0.8%; P = 0.26), range of motion (2.4 ± 1.3 cm vs. 2.7 ± 0.8 cm; P = 0.60), and single-leg balance with eyes opened (18.4 ± 8.2 sec vs. 10.7 ± 8.0 sec; P = 0.06) and closed (5.6 ± 8.4 sec vs. 3.9 ± 4.2 sec; P = 0.59). This non-inferiority pilot trial supports the use of HRW as an effective choice in AAS management. However, more studies are needed to corroborate these findings in other soft tissue injuries.

Wrist ankle acupuncture in the treatment of acute lumbar sprain: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Acute lumbar sprain (ALS) frequently occurs in the young and middle-aged people, causing great harm to people's quality of life. The systematic review program was designed to describe a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of wrist-ankle acupuncture (WAA) in treating patients with ALS. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: Our systematic review will search electronically and manually for WAA treatments for ALS by August, 2020, regardless of publication status and language. Databases include: MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, Springer, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, WHO International Clinical Trial Registration Platform (ICTRP), Chinese Medicine Database (TCMD), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), China Science Journal Database (VIP), and Wanfang Database. Other sources of information, including bibliographies and meeting minutes for identified publications, will also be searched. Manually search for grey literature, including unpublished conference articles. Any clinical randomized controlled trials related to WAA treatments for ALS, regardless of publication status and language limitations, will be included in the study. Study selection, data extraction, and research quality assessment will be done independently by 2 researchers. The primary outcome included the effective rate and visual analogue scale (VAS) or other validated scales used to relieve pain after the treatment. If possible, meta-analysis will be performed using RevMan V.5.3 statistical software. If it is not suitable for meta-analysis, a descriptive analysis or subgroup analysis is performed. RESULTS: This study will provide a comprehensive review and evaluation of the available evidence for the treatment of ALS using WAA. CONCLUSION: This study will provide new evidence to evaluate the effectiveness and side effects of WAA on ALS. Because the data is not personalized, no formal ethical approval is required. REGISTRATION NUMBER: PROSPERO CRD42020162945.

Traditional and modern practices in wounds and burn injuries in a population of North Western Turkey.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Recommended first aid approaches on burn injuries and wounds are highly effective to reduce complications and improve positive patient outcomes. However, traditional practices can be harmful for wound healing and increase infection risks. Therefore, the present study is aimed at determining Turkish people's traditional and modern first aid practices in burn injuries and wound. METHODS: This population-based descriptive study included 544 participants. Data was collected via questionnaire form. RESULTS: In this study, the most frequent cases that received first aid were cut wounds (56%) and burn injuries (22%). Most of participants (71.7% for burn injuries, 93.9% for open wound, 53% for closed wound) used modern first aid practices. However, some participants believed in the efficiency of traditional remedies in burn injuries and wounds and learned from family elders. In addition, it was found that educational status influenced belief in the effectiveness of traditional practices and that the conditions receiving first aid varied according to age and gender (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: We believe that more individuals (especially, older and female participants) should be contacted in order to provide first aid training and disseminate recommended practices on first aid. Further comprehensive studies are indicated to improve the quality of healthcare and to determine the needs and reasons to Turkish peoples choose of traditional practices.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Sports Musculoskeletal Injuries.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a well-established treatment for a variety of conditions. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is the administration of 100% oxygen breathing in a pressure vessel at higher than atmospheric pressure (1 atmosphere absolute = 101 kPa). Typically, treatment is given daily for between 1 and 2 h at pressures of 2.0 to 2.8 ATA, depending on the indication. Sporting injuries are often treated over 3 to 10 sessions. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been documented to be effective and is approved in 14 medical indications by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society, including, but not limited to, carbon monoxide poisoning, compromised skin grafts and flaps, crush injuries, necrotizing soft tissue infections, and nonhealing ulcers with arterial insufficiencies. Recently, HBOT for sports musculoskeletal injuries is receiving increased attention. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy may allow injured athletes to recover faster than normal rehabilitation methods. Any reduction in collegiate and professional athletes' rehabilitation period can be financially significant for top-level sports teams; however, further research is required to confirm HBOT's benefits on sports musculoskeletal injuries. The purpose of this review to discuss the current understanding of HBOT as a treatment modality for common musculoskeletal injuries in sport medicine. Moreover, we will highlight the advantages and disadvantages of this modality, as well as relevant clinical and research applications.

Noninvasive Interactive Neurostimulation Therapy for the Treatment of Low-Grade Lateral Ankle Sprain in the Professional Contact Sport Athlete Improves the Short-Term Recovery and Return to Sport: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Ankle injuries are very common between professional athletes and recreational sports. Lateral stable ligaments injury can be treated conservatively. Noninvasive interactive neurostimulation (NIN) is a form of electric therapy that works by locating areas of lower skin impedance. The objective of this prospective, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial was to compare the results in terms of improvement of a foot functional score, lower level of reported pain, and return to sports in 2 groups of contact sport athlete affected by a grade I or II lateral ankle sprain. Patients were randomized using random blocks to the NIN program (group I) or a sham device (group II). The outcome measurements were the use of a self-reported Inability Walking Scale, patient-reported subjective assessment of the level of pain using a standard visual analogue scale, and daily intake of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (etoricoxib 60 mg). Patients were also reached by telephone at 2 and 4 months of follow-up to register their return to sport activity. Beyond baseline evaluation, follow-ups were done after 5 (1 week) and 10 sessions (2 weeks) of treatment, and then at 30 days after the end of therapy. Of the 70 athletes admitted to the study, 61 eligible patients were randomized using random blocks to group I (n = 32) and group II (n = 29). Group I patients showed better improvement in terms of functional impairment (Inability Walking Scale), reported pain (visual analogue scale), and daily intake of etoricoxib 60 mg. Athletes of group I registered a faster resuming of sport activities. This prospective, randomized trial showed NIN can improve short-term outcomes in athletes with acute grade I or II ankle sprain and that it can hasten resuming of sport activities.

The Effectiveness of Deep Oscillation Therapy on Reducing Swelling and Pain in Athletes With Acute Lateral Ankle Sprains.

Clinical Scenario: Ankle sprains are the most prevalent athletic-related musculoskeletal injury treated by athletic trainers, often affecting activities of daily living and delaying return to play. Most of these cases present with pain and swelling in the ankle, resulting in decreased range of motion and strength deficits. Due to these impairments, proper treatment is necessary to avoid additional loss of play and prevent future injuries. Recently, there has been an increased use of deep oscillation therapy by clinicians to manage pain and swelling following a variety of injuries, including ankle sprains. However, very little evidence has been produced regarding the clinical effectiveness of deep oscillation therapy, limiting its application in therapeutic rehabilitation of acute lateral ankle sprains. Clinical Question: Is deep oscillation therapy effective in reducing pain and swelling in patients with acute lateral ankle sprains compared with the current standard of care protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation? Summary of Key Findings: The literature was searched for studies of level 2 evidence or higher that investigated deep oscillation therapy on pain and inflammation in patients with lateral ankle sprains. Three randomized control trials were located and appraised. One of the 3 studies demonstrate a reduction in pain following 6 weeks of deep oscillation therapy compared with the standard of care or placebo interventions. The 2 other studies, 1 utilizing a 5-day treatment and the other a 1 time immediate application, found no differences in deep oscillation therapy compared with the standard of care. Clinical Bottom Line: There is inconclusive evidence to support the therapeutic use of deep oscillation therapy in reducing pain and swelling in patients with acute lateral ankle sprains above and beyond the current standard of care. In addition, the method of treatment application and parameters used may influence the effectiveness of deep oscillation therapy. Strength of Recommendation: Level B.

TA pharmacopuncture as a primary and independent treatment for frequent sprains occurring over 9 months in a patient with needle sickness: Case report.

RATIONALE: Sprains, stretching or tearing of ligaments are common injuries. Clinicians should try to prevent acupuncture-associated vasovagal responses (AAVR) when treating patients with such injuries. In this study, we report the treatment of frequent sprains of various body parts in a patient with a history of AAVR using only TA (a 7-herb extract consisting of Scutellaria baicalensis, Phellodendron amurense, Pulsatilla koreana, Sophora tonkinensis, Aucklandia lappa, Aquilaria agallocha, and Carthamus tinctorius L.) pharmacopuncture. PATIENT CONCERNS: The patient was a 47-year-old woman who was injured 23 times in 9 months. The injuries occurred in the knees, thumb, wrist, ankle, and low back region due to overextension during physical activity or frequent exercise. This patient had great fear of acupuncture after fainting due to her experience with a previous fire needling on an ankle sprain 18 years ago. Therefore, she did not want to undergo conventional acupuncture, including needle retention. DIAGNOSES: With the exception of the bruising and sprain of a knee occurring over 1 week after onset at the initial visit, the injuries were diagnosed as acute sprains of grade 1 with pain without range of movement limitation in various parts of the knee, ankle, thumb, and lower back. Time to onset of these injuries was within 3 days. INTERVENTIONS: The patients received only TA pharmacopuncture at 4 to 6 ouch points (ashi points). The patient returned to work immediately after the conclusion of treatment without any posttreatment such as infrared and hot pack which can help absorbing the extract and calming the injection site. OUTCOME: The treatment was usually completed within 4 sessions, and led to a reduction in pain (visual analog scale [VAS] score of 1). In the absence of mild swelling and warmth or when there was mild pain (VAS score <3) in the affected area, the patient reported reduced pain and smoother joint movement immediately after 1 to 2 sessions. LESSONS: Although our report is a single case study, our results indicate that TA pharmacopuncture can be effective in treating various acute sprains and is a potential acupuncture method for the treatment of patients with AAVR.

Acupressure Therapy for Acute Ankle Sprains: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Ankle sprains occur frequently among young and active people, accounting for almost 2 million injuries per year. Previous reports suggest that acupressure therapy for acute ankle sprains may shorten the recovery time. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether acupressure therapy can improve ankle sprain recovery compared with standard RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) treatment. DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial was conducted. The study protocol was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry with the study registration number: ChiCTR-TRC-14004794. SETTING: Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine Orthopedics, PLA No.60 Center Hospital, Dali, China, and Department of Orthopedics, Xixi Hospital of Hangzhou, Hangzhou China, between June 2014 and January 2016. PATIENTS: A total of 68 patients with acute ankle sprains were assessed for study eligibility, and a total of 62 patients were included in the present study. METHODS: All patients with ankle sprains seen by the Orthopedics Department within 48 hours since the time of injury were identified. Consenting patients were randomized to either (1) standard treatment (ST group), (2) standard treatment + acupressure (AP group), or (3) standard treatment + mock acupressure (mock AP group). MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Outcomes of interest included a volumetric measurement of the foot, ankle, and lower leg), range of ankle movement, and visual analog pain scores. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score) and SF12v2 scores were used to assess quality of life. RESULTS: Among the 62 randomized patients, the mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) volumetric measurement of the foot, ankle, and lower leg in the AP group decreased from 185.24 (95% CI 142.80-227.67) to 62.14 (95% CI 44.03-80.25) after 3 sessions of acupressure treatment. This was a statistically significant difference (P < .01) compared with the means of ST group (119.00; 95% CI 89.14-148.86) and mock AP group (118.18; 95% CI 83.99-152.37). After the first treatment, the mean range of ankle movement, visual analog pain scores, and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Scores of the AP group were 31.67 (95% CI 27.78-35.55), 3.33 (95% CI 2.97-3.70), and 55.86 (95% CI 50.03-61.69), respectively. These scores were statistically better (P < .01) than the mean of the ST and mock AP group scores. In addition, the mean SF12v2 scores of AP group at 4 and 8 weeks were 109.95 (95% CI 107.29-112.62) and 119.67 (95% CI 119.27-120.05), respectively. These scores were also significantly greater than those of the ST group and mock AP groups (P < .01). CONCLUSION: Acupressure therapy may improve recovery after acute ankle sprain injury, yielding shortened time of disability and improved quality of life. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: I.

Current practice and usual care of major cervical disorders in Korea: A cross-sectional study of Korean health insurance review and assessment service national patient sample data.

Neck pain is a highly common condition and is the 4th major cause of years lived with disability. Previous literature has focused on the effect of specific treatments, and observations of actual practice are lacking to date. This study examined Korean health insurance review and assessment service (HIRA) claims data to the aim of assessing prevalence and comparing current medical practice and costs of cervical disorders in Korea.Current practice trends were determined through assessment of prevalence, total expenses, per-patient expense, average days in care, average days of visits, sociodemographic characteristics, distribution of medical costs, and frequency of treatment types of high frequency cervical disorders (cervical sprain/strain, cervical intervertebral disc displacement [IDD], and cervicalgia).Although the number of cervical IDD patients was few, total expenses, per-patient expense, average days in care, and average days of visits were highest. The proportion of women was higher than men in all 3 groups with highest prevalence in the ≥50s middle-aged population for IDD compared to sprain/strain. Primary care settings were commonly used for ambulatory care, of which approximately 70% chose orthopedic specialist treatment. In analysis of medical expenditure distribution, costs of visit (consultation) (22%-34%) and physical therapy (14%-16%) were in the top 3 for all 3 disorders. Although heat and electrical therapies were the most frequently used physical therapies, traction use was high in the cervical IDD group. In nonnarcotics, aceclofenac and diclofenac were the most commonly used NSAIDs, and pethidine was their counterpart in narcotics.This study investigated practice trends and cost distribution of treatment regimens for major cervical disorders, providing current usage patterns to healthcare policy decision makers, and the detailed treatment reports are expected to be of use to clinicians and researchers in understanding current usual care.

Characteristics of Traditional Chinese Medicine Use in Pediatric Dislocations, Sprains and Strains.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Dislocations, sprains and strains are common childhood musculoskeletal injuries, requiring medical attention. We investigated the characteristics associated with using traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for children suffering from these injuries. METHODS: From a nationwide representative insurance database of Taiwan, this cross-sectional study identified 50,769 children with dislocations, sprains and strains under 18 years of age, newly diagnosed between 1999 and 2009, without previous TCM experience. Children who initiated treatment with TCM (n = 24,063, 47.4%) were defined as TCM users, others were in the non-TCM group. Multivariable logistic regression models estimated odds ratios (ORs) of TCM use. RESULTS: Girls and children living in central Taiwan (vs. northern) were associated with higher TCM use. The adjusted ORs (95% confidence interval (CI)) of TCM uses were 1.60 (1.42-1.79) for patients of 3-5 years, 2.20 (1.99-2.42) of 6-12 years and 1.82 (1.64-2.01) of 13-17 years, compared with those of the <2 years group. TCM users were less likely to have outpatient visits for Western medicine care and hospitalizations in the previous year. The TCM group was nearly twice more likely than the non-user group to receive treatments at local clinics (99.1% vs. 53.3%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals important demographic and medical factors associated with TCM uses for children with dislocations, sprains and strains. Interestingly, local clinics are the main healthcare facilities providing TCM services. Further studies are needed to evaluate the outcomes of TCM treatment for these musculoskeletal injuries.

Contrast Therapy and Heat Therapy in Subacute Stage of Grade I and II Lateral Ankle Sprains.

UNLABELLED: Objective This study was conducted to determine the most effective thermal modality; heat or contrast therapy-in reducing pain, reducing swelling, and increasing range of movement (ROM) of the grade I and II lateral ankle sprain in the prechronic stage of the subacute phase. Design Randomized control trail. Methods One hundred and fifteen participants of both genders who were diagnosed as having grade I or II lateral ankle sprain were randomly assigned to the study on the fifth day of injury. Pain, volume, and ROM were recorded before and after treatment continuously for 3 days. Results Effects were evaluated as "Immediately after application" and "3 days after continuous application." Immediately after application, there was no difference between the 2 modalities on ankle ROM; heat reduced pain over contrast therapy, and both modalities increased swelling. When considering the effects after continuous application for 3 days, no difference was found between the 2 modalities on ROM and the reduction of pain. Contrast therapy reduced swelling while heat caused increased swelling even after 3 days. Conclusion The use of different thermal modalities during the transition from the acute to chronic phase of injury can be suggested as effective treatment options according to the objectives of injury management: pain reduction, improve ROM, and swelling management. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, Level II: Randomized clinical trial.

Consenso sobre utilización de las infiltraciones en el deporte. Documento de Consenso de la Sociedad Española de Medicina del Deporte / Consensus on use of infiltration in sport. Document of Consensus of the Spanish Society of Sports Medicine

La infiltración es una opción terapéutica, utilizada para el tratamiento de diversas patologías, que consiste en la administración inyectada en localizaciones precisas de diferentes sustancias. Pueden tener un efecto analgésico y/o antiinflamatorio y curativo. Su uso es frecuente en el tratamiento de muchas lesiones de tejidos blandos como bursitis, sinovitis, fascitis plantar, esguinces, lesiones musculares, tendinopatías y lesiones condrales y deben de ir precedido del correspondiente diagnóstico. Casi todas las infiltraciones tienen efectos secundarios locales, leves y, en algunas ocasiones, sistémicos y pueden presentar algunas contraindicaciones específicas que dependen de la sustancia administrada. La mayor parte de los efectos adversos son debidos a uso inapropiado del medicamento. Los principios activos más utilizados son: Anestésicos locales que producen un alivio inmediato del dolor, como lidocaína y bupivacaína. Se pueden usar solos o en combinación con corticosteroides ejerciendo un efecto combinado analgésico inmediato del dolor local y un efecto terapéutico de mayor duración. Corticoides cuya propiedad fundamental es una acción antiinflamatoria muy potente. Los más utilizados son betametasona, metilprednisolona y triamcinolona. Ácido hialurónico, utilizado en el tratamiento de patologías articulares, especialmente la artrosis de rodilla y las condromalacias. Lubrifica las articulaciones y parece tener efectos directos sobre la función de las células sinoviales y el líquido sinovial. Escleroterapia, que es la introducción de una sustancia química en la luz de los vasos sanguíneos, provocando una obliteración y fibrosis secundaria. Está indicada fundamentalmente en las tendinopatías con proliferación vascular. Biorreguladores: Estimulan la curación al modular o activar diversas sustancias implicadas. Plasma rico en plaquetas: plasma autólogo que contiene más concentración de plaquetas que la sangre normal que segregan una gran cantidad de factores de crecimiento. Proloterapia, que consiste en la infiltración de sustancias que estimulan la regeneración y reparación de los tejidos. Otros: Antiinflamatorios no esteroideos, factores de crecimiento, células madre y terapias relacionadas

Infiltration is a therapeutic option used for the treatment of various diseases, which comprises injected administration into precise locations of different substances. They may have an analgesic and / or anti-inflammatory and healing effect. Its use is common in the treatment of many soft tissue injuries such as bursitis, synovitis, plantar fasciitis, sprains, muscle injuries, tendinopathies and chondral injuries and must be preceded by the appropriate diagnosis. Almost all local infiltrations have mild side effects and, sometimes, these may be systemic and may have some specific contraindications depending on the administered substance. Most of the adverse effects are caused by improper use of the drug. The most used active substances are: local anesthetics that produce immediate pain relief, such as lidocaine and bupivacaine. They can be used alone or in combination with corticosteroids producing an immediate analgesic combined effect on local pain and a therapeutic effect of longer duration. Corticosteroids, whose main property is a very powerful anti-inflammatory action. The most used are betamethasone, methylprednisolone and triamcinolone. Hyaluronic acid, used in the treatment of joint diseases, particularly knee osteoarthritis and chondromalacias/chondropathias . It lubricates joints and appears to have direct effects on the function of synovial cells and synovial fluid. Sclerotherapy, which is the introduction of a chemical substance in the light of the blood vessels, causing obliteration and secondary fibrosis. It is indicated mainly in tendinopathies with vascular proliferation. Biorregulators: They stimulate healing when modulate or activate various involved substances. Platelet-rich plasma: autologous plasma containing more platelet concentration that normal blood, secreting a large amount of growth factors. Prolotherapy, it consists in substances infiltration that stimulate regeneration and tissue repair. Other: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, growth factors, stem cells and related therapies

Acupuncture-movement therapy for acute lumbar sprain: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: Several studies have reported that acupuncture is effective for treatment of acute lumbar sprain, but they neglected to consider that acupuncture cannot remarkably improve lumbar activity. We performed a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of acupuncture-movement therapy versus conventional acupuncture in the treatment of acute lumbar sprain. METHODS: Sixty patients were randomized into four groups: the acupuncture-movement (AM) group, sham acupuncture-movement (SAM) group, conventional acupuncture (CA) group, and physical therapy (PT) group. Patients in the AM group were treated with acupuncture at Yintang (EX-HN 3) and exercise of the lumbar region during acupuncture. Patients in the SAM group were treated with sham acupuncture at Yintang (EX-HN 3) and exercise of the lumbar region during sham acupuncture. Conventional acupuncture was performed in the CA group, and physical therapy was applied in the PT group. Each treatment lasted for 20 min. Patients were assessed before and after treatment using a visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Roland Morris Questionnaire (RMQ). RESULTS: The VAS and RMQ scores in the AM group were significantly lower after than before treatment (P < 0.01). The AM group reported lower RMQ scores in after-treatment and 24 h after treatment and lower VAS score in 24 h after treatment in comparison with those of the CA, SAM, and PT groups (P < 0.05). CONCULSION: Acupuncture-movement therapy is effective for treating acute lumbar sprain with a persistent pain-relief and remarkable improvement of lumbar activity. Movement, that is, lumbar exercise during acupuncture, enhances the effect of acupuncture.