Functional effects of kinesiology taping for medial plica syndrome: a prospective randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Medial plica syndrome (MPS) is a common yet overlooked cause of anterior knee pain. The treatment options for MPS include a variety of conservative approaches, however, the effect of kinesiology taping (KT), which is a feasible and effective treatment choice for musculoskeletal pathologies, has not been studied. OBJECTIVES: We investigated the efficacy of KT in addition to exercise in terms of pain severity, pain threshold, functional muscle strength of lower extremity, dynamic balance, functional status, and quality of life in patients with MPS. METHODS: Eighty participants with MPS were randomly and equally divided into two groups: 1) the KT group, which received KT in addition to a 6-week exercise program; and 2) the control group, which received the 6-week exercise program alone. The following evaluations were conducted before and after the treatment; pain threshold, pain severity, disability level, functional strength and dynamic balance of the lower extremity, and quality of life. RESULTS: Pain intensity decreased during activity, at rest, and night (KT group p < .001; control group p ≤ 0.013), and pain thresholds increased (KT group p < .001; control group p = .008) in both groups, however, the after treatment measures were better in the KT group (p ≤ 0.012). The time taken to complete the stairs up and down test decreased in both groups (KT group p < .001, control group p = .007) with a better outcome in the KT group (p = .024). Disability scores improved significantly in the KT only (p < .001). The quality of life improved in both groups (KT group p < .001; control group p = .005). CONCLUSIONS: While exercise therapy is beneficial in MPS treatment for functionality and pain relief; KT, in addition to exercise, improved symptoms and decreased impairment more efficiently than exercise alone in patients with MPS in our study, and it is thus a favorable treatment option for MPS.

Is there a relation between plantar fasciitis and total cholesterol levels?

BACKGROUND: The main objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between hypercholesterolemia and Plantar Fasciitis (PF). METHODS: The study includes patients who presented to the orthopedics outpatient clinic with heel pain and were diagnosed with PF. The control group was composed of patients who came to the orthopedics outpatient clinic, with complaints other than heel pain. The two groups were compared in terms of epidemiological data, total cholesterol (TC) levels, and hypercholesterolemia prevalence. We also performed an in-group analysis of PF patients in terms of age, sex, body mass index, and duration of symptoms. RESULTS: There were 238 patients (mean age, 46.7) in the PF group and 240 patients (mean age, 47.9) in the control group. There was a significant difference between the PF group and the control group in TC levels (207.6 ± 47.5 versus 195.1 ± 30.1, p = 0.001). Hypercholesterolemia (TC level > 240 mg/dL) was found in 22.7% (n = 54) of the patients in the PF group whereas in the control group this rate was 10.8% (n = 26) (p < 0.001). It was seen that the TC levels were significantly higher in patients over the age of 45 in the PF group (p = 0.038). We also found that TC levels were higher in PF patients with symptoms for longer than a year (p = 0.026). CONCLUSION: Significantly higher TC levels were found in PF patients in comparison with other orthopedic outpatients. Besides, being over the age of 45 and having a duration of symptoms longer than a year is associated with higher cholesterol levels for PF patients. LEVEL OF CLINICAL EVIDENCE: 4.

The co-occurrence of calcaneal spur and hallux valgus: A radiological evaluation.

BACKGROUND: Calcaneal spur and hallux valgus are common foot deformities and both conditions have been shown to disrupt foot biomechanics. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the association between calcaneal spur and hallux valgus using radiographic and demographic data. METHODS: A total of 1375 patients (1083 women; mean age: 45.5 years) with standard ankle lateral and foot conventional anteroposterior radiographs were evaluated. The following data were obtained: age, gender, laterality, hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), and calcaneal spur. Patients with a HVA of 15∘ and above were considered to have hallux valgus. Patients with hallux valgus were classified into three different groups according to the HVA. RESULTS: The prevalence of calcaneal spur was higher in older age and women (45.8%, 30.2%; p< 0.01, p< 0.01, respectively). Subjects with and without calcaneal spurs had similarities in terms of their laterality, having a HVA of ⩾ 15∘ and an IMA of ⩾ 11∘ (p> 0.05). Hallux valgus severity was not associated with calcaneal spur (p> 0.05). In addition, the hallux valgus prevalence was higher in patients who were over 50 years old (58.2%, p= 0.046). CONCLUSIONS: The presence of calcaneal spurs does not affect the prevalence of hallux valgus. The severity of hallux valgus determined according to the HVA was similar in patients with and without calcaneal spurs. In addition, female gender and older age were identified as risk factors for calcaneal spurs, while only older age was a risk factor for hallux valgus.

Children with supracondylar humerus fractures have an increased risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have an increased risk of sustaining fractures during their preschool years. Supracondylar humerus fractures (SHFs) comprise the majority of fracture surgeries in the pediatric age range. We hypothesized that ADHD symptoms would be present in children with SHFs, and this characteristic trauma may be associated with an ADHD diagnosis. Thus, we compared the ADHD symptoms of children with and without SHFs. Further, we compared the trauma characteristics, gender, proneness to injury, and presence of prior trauma history of children diagnosed with and without ADHD. We recruited 41 children who were admitted to emergency service with an SHF and 41 age- and gender-matched children without a fracture history. A semi-structured diagnostic inter- view and a Swanson Nolan Pelham questionnaire were used to obtain data about ADHD symptoms. A clinical intake form was utilized for further clinical data. ADHD symptoms were significantly higher in the fracture group ; male gender, parent- reported proneness to injury, and prior history of trauma were significantly associated with ADHD. Orthopedic surgeons may provide early detection of ADHD by using screening tools or asking questions to caregivers and making referrals when needed. This may lead to prevention of further injuries.

Comparison on effects of platelet-rich plasma versus autologous conditioned serum on Achilles tendon healing in a rat model.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of local administrations of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with autologous conditioned serum (ACS) on Achilles tendon healing in a rat model. METHODS: In this study, 40 male Sprague-Dawley rats, aged 12 months and weighing 350 to 400 g were used. The rats were divided into three groups (n=10 in each group): a control group and two treatment groups (PRP vs ACS). A standardized procedure was applied for the complete rupture and repair of the Achilles tendon in each group. The PRP group received one dose of PRP on the operative area, and ACS group received ACS at 24, 48, and 72 hours after the surgery. The control group received no injection. Animals were sacrificed 30 days after the operation, and tendon healing in each group was assessed histopathologically based on Bonar's semi-quantitative score and Movin's semi-quantitative grading scale. For the biomechanical analyses, unoperated Achilles tendons of all rats in the control and ACS groups were also harvested, and pulling tests were applied to the specimen to measure the longitudinal axis strength. The highest force value among the data obtained was defined as the maximum strength value (Fmax). RESULTS: The mean Bonar's score was significantly lower in the PRP group (3.8±0.8) than in the ACS (4.8±0.45) and control groups (5.2±0.837) (p=0.0028). The mean Movin's score was significantly lower in the PRP group (7.80±1.49) than in the ACS (9.8±1) and control groups (11.2±2.4) (p=0.029). The ratio of type I collagen was significantly higher in the PRP group (60±6) than in the ACS (52±4.5) and control groups (42±9) (p=0.005). Biomechanical results obtained from operated sites were comparable in terms of Fmax among groups (PRP, 33.93±2.61; ACS, 35.24±3.26; control, 35.69±3.62) (p=0.674). Similarly, the results obtained from unoperated sites were comparable among groups (PRP, 47.71±1.21; ACS, 48.14±2; control, 49.14.69±1.88) (p=0.395). CONCLUSION: In terms of histopathological results, PRP seems to be more effective than ACS for Achilles tendon healing in rats.

Isotretinoin induced achilles tendinopathy: Histopathological and biomechanical evaluation on rats.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate histopathological and biomechanical effects of isotretinoin on Achilles tendon. MATERIALS & METHODS: Sixteen rats were divided into two groups including the control group (n = 8) and isotretinoin group (n = 8). The control group received 1.42 ml/kg soy oil per day whereas the isotretinoin group received 15 mg/kg/day (gavage dose 1.42 ml/kg) isotretinoin dissolved in soy oil through gavage method for 6 weeks. Achilles tendons were excised at the end of week 6. The tendon samples were evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin under a light microscope. Quantitative evaluation was performed via Movin and Bonar scoring. A computer-monitored tensile testing machine was utilised for biomechanical testing. Biomechanical characteristics of the tendon samples (elastic modulus, yield force, ultimate tensile force) were measured. RESULTS: Histopathological evaluation revealed a significantly higher Movin and Bonar scores in histopathological evaluation. Movin score in isotretinoin group was 4.1 ± 2.5 and it was 2.3 ± 1.0 in control group (p = 0.032). Bonar score in isotretinoin group was 2.9 ± 1.4 and it was 1.6 ± 0.7 in control group (p = 0.022). In line with histopathological evaluation, biomechanical measurements in isotretinoin group (elastic modulus, yield force, ultimate tensile force) were significantly lower than the control group. Elastic modulus in isotretinoin group was 227 ± 27.7 N/mm2 and in control group it was 281.7 ± 38.7 N/mm2 (p = 0.006). In isotretinoin group; yield force was 33.7 ± 4.3 Pa and in control group it was 40.8 ± 5.9 Pa (p = 0.021). Ultimate tensile force in isotretinoin group was 35.7 ± 4.2 Pa and in control group it was 44 ± 7 Pa (p = 0.009). CONCLUSION: The present study detected histopathological and biomechanical negative effect of isotretinoin on Achilles tendon. Therefore, isotretinoin should be questioned in medical history of patients with tendinopathy.

Effects of low molecular weight heparin and rivaroxaban on rat Achilles tendon healing.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to compare the histopathological and biomechanical effects of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and rivaroxaban, which are frequently used in orthopedic surgery for thromboembolic prophylaxis, on rat Achilles tendon healing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the study, 36 adult, male Sprague Dawley rats weighing between 300 g and 400 g were used. Three groups were formed including 12 rats in each. Achilles tendons of all rats were cut and repaired. Nadroparin calcium was administered subcutaneously for 21 days at a dose of 170 IU AXa to the first group (LMWH group). Rivaroxaban was administered daily at a dose of 3 mg/kg for 21 days as gastric lavage to the second group (rivaroxaban group). The third group was identified as the control group and no medication was administered in this group. At the end of three weeks, tendons extracted from the groups were examined histopathologically and biomechanically. RESULTS: Bonar's and Movin's scores obtained as a result of histopathological examination were statistically significantly higher in the control group (p=0.003 and p=0.004, respectively) (high scores indicate that tendon healing is not sufficient). When type I and type III collagen ratios were examined, type I collagen ratio, which should be found at a higher ratio in mature tendon, was statistically significantly higher in rivaroxaban and LMWH groups compared with the control group (p=0.002). As a result of biomechanical examination, higher mean maximum force values were obtained from the rivaroxaban group compared with the LMWH group (p=0.31). Mean maximum force values obtained from the control group were higher than those obtained from the LMWH group (p=0.03) and the rivaroxaban group (p=0.18). CONCLUSION: Histopathological examination revealed that both LMWH and rivaroxaban have positive effects on tendon healing. However, the same positive effects were not detected in biomechanical examination.

Investigation of the biomechanical and histopathological effects of autologous conditioned serum on healing of Achilles tendon.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study to evaluate the effects of autologous conditioned serum (ACS) on the healing of transected rat Achilles tendons via the assessment of biomechanical and histological parameters. METHODS: The study was conducted on 45 male Sprague-Dawley rats. Five rats were used as donors for ACS preparation. Animals were randomly assigned to the experimental or control group. In both groups, the Achilles tendon was cut transversally and then sutured. In the placebo control and ACS-treated groups, saline or ACS, respectively, was injected into the repair zone three times after surgery. Ten rats from each group (ACS group, n = 20; control group, n = 20) were euthanized at days 15 and 30 after surgery for histopathological (n = 5) and biomechanical (n = 5) testing. The histopathological findings were interpreted using the Bonar and Movin scales. Tendon remodelling was evaluated via the immunohistochemical staining of collagen type 3. Biomechanical effects were assessed by tensile testing. RESULTS: The Bonar and Movin scale scores were significantly better in the ACS-treated group on both day 15 (p = 0.003 and p = 0.003, respectively) and day 30 (p = 0.005 and p = 0.004, respectively). The immunohistochemical density of collagen type 3 was significantly lower in the ACS-treated group on day 30 (p = 0.018). The type 1/3 collagen ratios of the groups were similar on days 15 and 30, as determined by Sirius Red staining (p = 0.910 and p = 0.133, respectively). In the biomechanical assessment results, the ACS-treated group's maximum load to failure values were significantly higher on day 15 (p = 0.049). CONCLUSION: Injection of ACS had a positive effect on the histopathological healing of rat Achilles tendons on days 15 and 30 and on biomechanical healing on day 15. ACS treatment contributed to lowering the collagen type 3 density by day 30. According to our study, ACS may be favourable for the treatment of human Achilles tendon injuries and tendinopathies.

Is talon tibial intramedullary nailing clinically superior compared to conventional locked nailing?

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to compare the results of talon tibial intramedullary (IM) nailing with the results of conventional distal locked tibial IM nailing. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study included 60 patients (37 males, 23 females; mean age 42.2 years; range 18 to 92 years) who underwent tibial IM nailing with the diagnosis of unilateral, closed or open (Gustilo-Anderson type 1) tibial diaphyseal fracture (Orthopaedic Trauma Association 42) between January 2013 and January 2016. Patients were separated into two groups as talon tibial IM nailing group (group 1, n=30) and distal locked tibial IM nailing group (group 2, n=30). All patients' operative and total radiation exposure times were recorded. At last control, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society and Tegner Lysholm scores were evaluated for clinical outcomes. All complications were recorded. RESULTS: Mean operative time was 43.8 minutes in group 1 and 50.2 minutes in group 2. Mean radiation exposure time in group 1 was 5.4 minutes, which was three times shorter than the time of group 2, which was 17.5 minutes. Mean time until union was 16.9 weeks in group 1 and 12.2 weeks in group 2. Statistically significant differences were present between two groups in operative, radiation exposure time and time until union (p=0.019, p=0.001, p=0.001, respectively). When American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society and Tegner Lysholm scores were compared, there were no statistically significant differences (p=0.951 and p=0.896). CONCLUSION: Talon tibial IM nailing is an easier and safer alternative to conventional distal locked tibial IM nailing with shorter operative and radiation exposure times. However, it should be kept in mind that the time until radiographic union may be longer compared to conventional tibial IM nailing.