Impact of Regular Physical Activity on Adipocytokines and Cardiovascular Characteristics in Spinal Cord-Injured Subjects.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship of carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) and cardiac structure and function with adipocytokines in sedentary (S-SCI) and physically active (PA-SCI) subjects with spinal cord injury (SCI). DESIGN: Cross-sectional observational study. SETTING: Academic medical center. PARTICIPANTS: Men with chronic (>1y) SCI (N=41; 16 S-SCI, 25 PA-SCI) were evaluated. S-SCI subjects did not perform labor that required physical effort, recreational physical activity, or sports, while PA-SCI subjects included competing athletes who were regularly performing adapted sports. INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Clinical, laboratory, carotid ultrasonography, and echocardiography analysis. Plasma leptin, adiponectin, and plasminogen activating inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) levels were determined. RESULTS: PA-SCI subjects had similar levels of adipocytokines, but lower carotid IMT and carotid IMT/diameter, and better left ventricular diastolic function than S-SCI participants. Bivariate analysis showed that adiponectin was inversely correlated with triglycerides (r=-.85, P<.001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r=-.57, P<.05), and carotid IMT/diameter (r=-.56, P<.05) in S-SCI but not in PA-SCI participants. Additionally, the leptin-adiponectin ratio showed a direct correlation with triglycerides (r=.84, P<.001) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r=.53, P<.05) in S-SCI but not in PA-SCI individuals. By contrast, the studied adipocytokines did not correlate with cardiac structure and function in PA-SCI and S-SCI participants. CONCLUSIONS: Lower adiponectin levels and higher leptin-adiponectin ratio are related to adverse vascular and/or metabolic characteristics in individuals with SCI. This relationship, however, appears to be mitigated by regular physical activity.

Impact of Adapted Sports Activities on the Progression of Carotid Atherosclerosis in Subjects With Spinal Cord Injury.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether regular performance of adapted sports is associated with long-term changes in carotid atherosclerosis in subjects with spinal cord injury (SCI). DESIGN: Prospective observational study. SETTING: Academic medical center. PARTICIPANTS: Men with chronic (>1y) SCI and no preserved motor function below the injury level were evaluated in 2007 and 2012 (N=17). Nine subjects did not perform physical activity between the studied time points (control group), whereas 8 subjects entered competitive upper-body sports programs (rugby: n=5, basketball: n=1, jiu-jitsu: n=1, and tennis: n=1) after baseline and were regularly training at the time of the second evaluation (sports group). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Clinical, laboratory, hemodynamic, and carotid ultrasonography analysis. RESULTS: The studied groups showed no differences in all studied variables at baseline. After 5 years of follow-up, the control group showed increases in heart rate (87.0±3.1 vs 74.7±3.8 beats per minute; P=.004), but the participants had no significant changes in carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) (.65±.05 vs .67±.03mm; P=.73) or IMT/diameter (.118±.007 vs .136±.013; P=.24). In contrast, the sports group showed long-term decreases in carotid IMT (.56±.05 vs .74±.05mm; P=.001) and IMT/diameter (.097±.006 vs .141±.009; P<.001), but the participants did not show any variation in the other studied variables at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Regular upper-body sports activities are associated with long-term reductions in carotid atherosclerosis in subjects with SCI and might be a potential prevention strategy aiming to reduce cardiovascular risk in this population.

Experiencing Functional Electrical Stimulation Roots on Education, and Clinical Developments in Paraplegia and Tetraplegia With Technological Innovation.

Cybernetics-based concepts can allow for complete independence for paralyzed individuals, including sensory motor recovery. Spinal cord injuries are responsible for a huge stress on health and a financial burden to society. This article focuses on novel procedures such as functional diagnosis for paraplegics and tetraplegics, cybertherapies toward lessening comorbidities such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, etc., and the production of new technology for upper and lower limb control. Functional electrical stimulation reflects a unique opportunity for bipedal gait to be achieved by paraplegics and tetraplegics. Education and training of undergraduates and postgraduates in engineering and life sciences have also been a major aim of this work.

Posture Influence on the Pendulum Test of Spasticity in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury.

The study aims to investigate the influence of different postures on spasticity results by pendulum test in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). The setting was at the University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil. Five individuals with SCI and five individuals in the control group were included. All individuals went through the pendulum test in three different positions: supine, semi-supine at an angle of 30°, and sitting up at an angle of 60°. An electrogoniometer was attached to the right leg for measurement of knee joint angles. All situations were performed five times. Blood pressure was monitored during tests. Relaxation index (RI), normalized relaxation index (RIn), test duration in seconds, initial flexion angle, and resting angle were analyzed at three different positions. Results were compared between different positions, and statistically no differences were found. In individuals with SCI, RI (1.83 ± 0.2), RIn (1.14 ± 0.13), and test duration values (13.95 ± 4.14), in sitting up position, were similar to the control group results. In sitting up position, patients showed spasticity reduction. However, the other two postures produce pain and increase blood pressure in patients with tetraplegia. Therefore, these postures should be avoided in patients with lesions above T6, due to possible autonomic dysreflexia symptoms.

The effects of 780-nm low-level laser therapy on muscle healing process after cryolesion.

The objective of this study was to assess the effects of 780-nm low-level laser therapy at different periods of 7, 14 and 21 days after cryolesion, including the dose (10 or 50 J/cm(2)), to promote a better muscle repair evidenced by histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses. Fifty-four male rats were divided into three groups: injured control group (CG)-injured animals without any treatment; injured 780-nm laser-treated group, at 10 J/cm(2) (G10); and injured 780-nm laser-treated group, at 50 J/cm(2) (G50). Each group was divided into three subgroups (n = 6): 7, 14 and 21 days post-injury. Histopathological findings revealed better organised muscle fibres in the G10 and G50 during the periods of 7 and 14 days compared to the CG. The G10 and G50 during the 7 days showed a significant reduction (p < 0.05) of lesion area compared to the CG, without differences between groups treated for 14 and 21 days. The G10 showed an increase of the amount of vessels after 14 days compared to the G50, but not in relation to controls. With regard to the immunohistochemical analyses of the MyoD factor, the G10 and G50 during the 7 days showed higher concentrations of immunomarkers than controls. Myogenin immunomarkers were similarly observed at days 7 and 14 in all the three groups analysed, whereas immunomarkers were found in none of the groups after 21 days of laser therapy. The results showed that laser, regardless the applied dose, has positive effects on muscle repair.

Pain and quality of life in athletes vs non-athletes with spinal cord injury: Observational study.

Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI) may cause non-motor symptoms, such as chronic pain, which impair quality of life (QoL)Objective: To investigate the relationship between adapted competitive sports, pain, and QoL in people with SCI in a limited resources setting population.Methods: This prospective cross-sectional observational study involved 16 athletes and 24 non-athletes with SCI and collected data on demographic and clinical variables including scores for pain and pain interference in daily life (Brief Pain Inventory, BPI), neuropathic pain severity (Neuropathic Pain Symptoms Inventory, NPSI) and Quality of life (Word Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment, WHOQOL-BREF). Non-parametric testing was used to compare the groups, and due to athletes being younger, multiple linear regression analyses were used to adjust for the effect of sports practice on the outcome variables when adjusting for age.Results: Athletes were younger (median age 36y) than non-athletes (median age 41.5y; Mann-Whitney U test P = 0.011), and QoL was superior in athletes for the Physical, Psychological, Social Relationships, Self-Evaluation domains, and Total Score when adjusted for age (P < 0.01). Despite having no significant differences in pain intensity scores (NPSI, P = 0.742 and BPI, P = 0.261) athletes had less pain interference on "Relationship with Others", "Enjoyment of Life", and Total score (P < 0.05). Participation in competitive adapted sports (P = 0.004) and Total Pain Interference (P = 0.043) were significantly associated with QoL scores in the multiple linear regression analyses.Conclusion: Athletes with SCI have better QoL and less pain interference in some aspects of life when compared to non-athletes.

CLINICAL AND FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION OF WRISTS AND HANDS OF SPINAL CORD INJURED PATIENTS.

Introduction: The inability of the spinal cord to propagate sensory and motor stimuli as a result of the disruption of the nerve tracts is called spinal cord injury. Objective: This study analyzes clinically and radiologically the hands and wrists of spinal cord injured patients, evaluating their motor and sensitive functionality, in order to determine if these patients are more likely to develop degenerative alterations. Methods: 14 patients (8 paraplegics and 6 tetraplegics) were evaluated, undergoing anamnesis and clinical examination - a scale of muscular strength (MRC - Medical Research Council) and the amplitude measurement of the movement with a manual goniometer (ROM), were used for objective evaluation - and x-ray exams. The results were compared with pre-existing data from other studies. Results: When asked, only one of the 14 observed patients complained about constant wrist pain, described as level 3 (weak to moderate), based on the visual analog scale (VAS). The motor evaluation, MRC and ROM divided the group of patients into two subgroups: paraplegic and tetraplegic patients. The x-ray analysis showed, based on Kellgren and Lawrence classification, that all exam images fit grades 1 or 2 of osteoarthritis and osteoarthrosis. Conclusion: In conclusion, spinal cord injured patients showed none or minimal clinical and radiological signs of osteoarthritis on hands or wrists. Overall, the hands and wrists of spinal cord-injured patients behave similarly to noninjured patients. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Comparative Study.

Introdução: A incapacidade da medula espinhal de propagar estímulos sensoriais e motores como resultado do rompimento das vias nervosas é chamada de lesão da medula espinhal. Objetivo: Este estudo analisa clínica e radiograficamente mão e punhos de pacientes lesados medulares, avaliando função motora e sensitiva, a fim de determinar se estes pacientes estariam mais propensos a alterações degenerativas. Métodos: 14 pacientes (8 paraplégicos e 6 tetraplégicos) foram avaliados, passando por anamnese e exame clínico - sendo escala de força muscular (MRC - Medical Research Council) e a medição da amplitude de movimento com um goniômetro manual (ROM) foram utilizados para análise objetiva - e radiografias. Os dados obtidos foram comparados com literatura preexistente. Resultados: Quando questionados, apenas um dos 14 pacientes observados referiu dor crônica nos punhos, descrita como nível 3 (fraca a moderada), baseada na escala visual analógica. A avaliação motora, MRC e ROM dividiram os pacientes em 2 subgrupos: pacientes paraplégicos e tetraplégicos. A análise radiográfica mostrou, baseada na classificação de Kellgren e Lawrence, que todas as imagens se encaixam nos graus 1 ou 2 de osteoartrite e osteoartrose. Conclusão: Conclui-se, então, que pacientes lesados medulares apresentam nenhuma ou mínimas alterações clínicas e radiológicas para osteoartrite ou osteoartrose de punhos ou mãos. Ou seja, no geral, mãos e punhos de pacientes lesados medulares comportam-se como os pacientes sem lesão medular. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo Retrospectivo Comparativo.

Kinetic and kinematic evaluation of the ankle joint after achilles tendon reconstruction with free semitendinosus tendon graft: preliminary results.

Chronic rupture of the Achilles tendon (AT) is a surgical challenge and has effects on the gait. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the kinetic and kinematic parameters of the ankle joint in patients with AT rupture operated using a free semitendinosus tendon graft. Thirteen patients were analyzed 6 and 12 months after surgery in a force platform, while the movements were recorded by six infrared cameras. The kinematic variables analyzed included speed, cadence, step length, percentage of stance phase, and range of movement (ROM) of the ankle joint in the sagittal and frontal planes. Kinetic data were obtained by joint movement in different phases of the gait cycle. Functional assessment was performed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score. The patients showed a significant increase (P = 0.0215) in AOFAS from 68.5 (±18.7) to 85.2 (±18.0). Speed, cadence, and length of step of the four groups (1A, 1B, 2A, 2B) were lower than the control group (group 3), and the percentage in stance phase was higher for the nonoperated foot 6-month group (1B) compared to the control group (group 3). For the kinematic data, the ROM of the ankle in stance phase increased from 6 to 12 months showing an effect of time between four groups (1A, 1B, 2A, 2B). During swing phase, the ankle ROM was lower in the operated side (effect of side, P = 0.0255) and groups 1A and 2A demonstrated statistical differences when compared with the control group (group 3) (P = 0.0240 and P = 0.0414, respectively). ROM of inversion and eversion presented effect of time among the same groups (P = 0.0059) cited before. There were no differences in kinetic data between groups. This study showed close proximity between the control group and the operated group. Furthermore, improvement was shown when comparing the 6 and 12 months postsurgery periods. The surgical procedure is therefore helpful for the patient and few changes were present in gait and ankle biomechanics.

HETEROTOPIC OSSIFICATION AFTER SPINAL CORD INJURY: PREVENTION AND TREATMENT - A SISTEMATIC REVIEW.

Trauma configures the main cause of spinal cord injuries. Patients with traumatic spinal cord injury often develop severe and debilitating outcomes that require multidisciplinary care to adapt patients to their new reality. Heterotopic ossification (HO) is one of the frequent comorbidities in these patients but it still lacks well-established treatments or a gold standard one. Thus, this systematic review aimed to search the current literature for HO treatment and prevention. This study was conducted following PRISMA recommendations (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) and searches were conducted in three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science). A total of 193 articles were found in an initial search. After screening following the established criteria, eight articles were included in this review; of these, two reported prevention and the others, treatments. Based on data analysis, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the acute post-traumatic period proved to be the best method of prevention. In cases of mature HO or accompanied by ankylosis, surgical resection proved to be the most effective treatment despite the high rate of postoperative infections. Level of Evidence III, Systematic Review.

A principal causa de lesão medular é o trauma. O paciente com trauma raquimedular frequentemente evolui com incapacidades graves e debilitantes, fazendo com que necessite de cuidado multiprofissional para se adaptar a uma nova realidade. A ossificação heterotópica (OH) é uma comorbidade comum nesses pacientes, mas que ainda não tem tratamentos bem estabelecidos ou considerados padrão-ouro. Esta revisão sistemática teve como objetivo buscar formas de tratamento e prevenção da OH na literatura atual. O estudo seguiu a recomendação Principais Itens para Relatar Revisões Sistemáticas e Meta-Análises (PRISMA) e realizou buscas em três bases de literatura (PubMed, Embase e Web of Science). Foram encontrados 193 artigos inicialmente, e, após triagem considerando os critérios estabelecidos, oito foram eleitos para o trabalho final. Dois trabalhos abordaram a prevenção; e os demais, tratamentos. Pela análise dos dados, o uso de anti-inflamatórios não esteroidais (AINEs) no período agudo pós-traumático se mostrou como o melhor método de prevenção. Já em relação ao tratamento, nos casos de OH maduras ou com anquilose, a ressecção cirúrgica revelou-se como o método mais efetivo, a despeito da grande taxa de infecção pós-operatória. Nível de Evidência III, Revisão Sistemática.

Upper extremity effort during the sit-to-stand task in able-bodied and in individuals with spinal cord injury: A preliminary study.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between the presence of spinal cord injury (SCI) on biomechanical variables by comparing individuals with SCI and able-bodied individuals during the sit-to-stand (STS) task assisted by a walker device. Specifically, we compared the upper-extremity joint angles and moments, trunk forward tilt angle, vertical forces of the instrumented walker, and ground reaction forces between groups. DESIGN: Case-control study. SETTING: Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, UNICAMP-Brazil. PARTICIPANTS: Six individuals with SCI and fourteen able-bodied individuals. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Kinematics and kinetics of the shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints; trunk forward tilt angle, vertical walker forces, and ground reaction forces (GRF) were analyzed during the STS task in two phases: before and after the seat-off event. RESULTS: A higher peak elbow flexion angle and higher vertical walker forces were observed before the seat-off, whereas the lower peak vertical GRF was found, after the seat-off, in the SCI group compared with the control group. CONCLUSIONS: SCI affects kinematics and kinetics variables during the STS task compared to able-bodied controls. Individuals with SCI adopted different standing-up strategies that affected the distribution of the forces in the upper and lower extremities of the human body.

Design and fast-fabrication of a system for functional electrical stimulation in upper limb of people with tetraplegia.

STUDY DESIGN: Proof of concept. OBJECTIVES: Standard Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) systems can enhance motor learning in people with tetraplegia and are widely delivered by self-adhesive electrodes. Their limitations are dexterity, specific knowledge to place the electrodes on muscles, need to fix electrodes when they lose the gel layer, and time. We designed a new FES system, using an existing protocol of drinking-like movements, to the upper limb of a person with tetraplegia C5 that fits in any anthropometry and can be easily produced. Furthermore, we tested the system to assess its effectiveness and users' perception during FES rehabilitation. SETTING: São Carlos, SP, Brazil. METHODS: A shell was designed with parametric design and fast-fabrication methods, and a stimulation unit and a smartphone application were developed. Questionnaires assessed the perceptions of a patient and a physiotherapist, about the usability of the new system in relation to standard FES. Kinematic data of drinking-like movements were collected from the patient wearing both systems and compared with data from an aged-matched control subject. RESULTS: The results are a personalized shell and an intuitive FES system, overcoming the limitations of standard FES. The new system suggested better wrist-flexion control shown by the mean angles (-18.93°), then the other system (-59.35°), and compared with the control (-10.97°). CONCLUSIONS: Fast-fabrication with parametric design offers a promising alternative for personalizing FES systems, with potential for home use. Further studies are required including randomized clinical trials.

Biomechanical Gait Analysis of an Adult with Severe Hemophilia: A Case Report.

Hemophilia is characterized by recurrent bleeding into the joints leading to irreversible chronic arthropathy with reduced joint range of motion (ROM), which may lead to changes in gait patterns. To analyze the gait pattern in a 35-year-old male with severe hemophilia A, three-dimensional biomechanical analysis was performed during overground walking. The control group data from a public gait dataset of 10 healthy male individuals were used for comparison. The clinical examination was assessed with the Functional Independence Score in Hemophilia (FISH), Haemophilia Activities List (HAL), and Hemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS). The biomechanical analysis demonstrated a pattern for both left knee and ankle joints with greater similarity to the control group compared to the right knee and ankle joints. ROM based on the HJHS questionnaire also showed greater impairment of the right-side knee joint compared to the left-side knee joint. This unique pattern could be the result of a compensation mechanism due to limited movement during the walking task and the surgical treatment.

THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE PROFILE OF MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS ATTENDED AT A TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN CAMPINAS.

Traffic-accidents are a public health problem with repercussions on population morbimortality. Objective: To analyze the impact of the pandemic on the profile of motorcycle accidents assisted at the Tertiary Hospital in 2020. Methods: Cross-sectional, descriptive retrospective study in 2017 and 2020 of 260 medical records of care for motorcycle accidents in the emergency room of the Tertiary Hospital. Statistical analysis of data and their correlations using the chi-square test (p < 0.05). Results: Of the 105 medical records in 2017, 83% are men, mean age 29.8 years, and death rate of 3.90%. Fractures in 98.10%, 64.10% exposed and predominantly the tibia (61.90%). Of the 155 medical records in 2020, 91.61% are men, mean age 31.21 years, and no deaths. Fractures in 94.84%, 37.42% exposed and predominantly the tibia (28.57%). Between 2017 and 2020, Infosiga-SP showed a relevant reduction (p < 0.001) of deaths in the hospital environment (52.46% to 31.91%). Conclusion: The incidence of motorcycle accidents increased, in-hospital deaths dropped, but the epidemiological profile of accidents at the Hospital remained unchanged. Level of Evidence III, Comparative Retrospective Study.

Acidentes motociclísticos configuram um problema de saúde pública com repercussões na morbimortalidade populacional. Objetivo: Analisar o impacto da pandemia por COVID-19 no perfil de acidentes motociclísticos atendidos em um hospital terciário em 2020. Métodos: Estudo transversal, descritivo e retrospectivo que analisou 260 prontuários de acidentados de moto atendidos na Urgência e Emergência do Hospital Universitário Terciário em 2017 e 2020. Realizou-se uma análise estatística dos dados e suas correlações pelo teste qui-quadrado (p < 0,05). Resultados: Dos 105 prontuários de 2017, 83% são de homens (p < 0,001), com média de 29,8 anos, e índice de óbito de 3,90%. Houve fraturas em 98,10% dos casos, sendo 58,10% expostas e predominantemente da tíbia (61,90%). Dos 155 prontuários de 2020, 91,61% são homens (p < 0,001), com média de 31,21 anos e sem casos de óbito. Houve fraturas em 94,84%, sendo 37,42% expostas e predominantemente da tíbia (28,57%). Entre 2017 e 2020, o Infosiga-SP mostrou redução significativa (p < 0,001) de mortes em ambiente hospitalar (de 52,46% para 31,91%). Conclusão: Houve aumento na incidência dos acidentes motociclísticos e queda nos óbitos intra-hospitalares, mas o perfil epidemiológico dos acidentados no hospital permaneceu inalterado. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Comparativo Retrospectivo.

Opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy with and without bone graft.

Medial opening-wedge has gained popularity in comparison to other techniques of high tibial osteotomy. This technique involves the creation of a gap in the tibia. Filling the gap with autologous iliac bone graft was recommended in the classic description, to prevent complications such as correction loss or delayed bone union. No previous reports have compared grafted and nongrafted osteotomies. This study hypothesized that the use of autologous bone graft in medial opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) less than 12.5 mm is unnecessary. A prospective randomized clinical trial was conducted. Forty-six opening-wedge high tibial osteotomies were carried out between April 2007 and December 2008. All had fixation with a type of Puddu stainless steel plate and screws. Patients were randomly divided by software analysis into two groups: group A had osteotomies that were filled with autologous bone graft and group B had osteotomies that were unfilled. Autologous iliac bone graft was harvested in both groups. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed twice monthly by blinded investigators. The rates of complications were compared between the groups. There was no difference in demographic data. Mean time to clinical bone union in group A was 12.4 weeks (confidence interval [CI] 11.2-13.6) and in group B was 13.7 weeks (CI 12.5-14.9), but this difference was not significant (P = 0.13). Signals of correction loss occurred in one patient (4.35%) in group A, and in two patients (8.70%) in group B. All osteotomies had achieved bone union. It was concluded that time to bone union was not statistically different between the group with bone graft and the group without graft.

A low-cost easily implementable physiotherapy intervention clinically improves gait implying better adaptation to lower limb prosthesis: a randomized clinical trial.

Lower limb amputation highly impacts the lives of individuals. The inability to walk due to difficulties in adapting to wearing prosthesis can potentially result in physical degeneration and comorbidity in this population. In this randomized clinical trial study, we investigated if a low-cost and easily implementable physiotherapy intervention was effective in improving gait performance and adaptation to lower limb prosthesis in individuals with an amputation. A total of 26 individuals participated in the study, 16 with lower limb amputation and 10 without amputation. Participants with amputation were further divided in intervention and control groups. The intervention group underwent a rehabilitation protocol aimed at strengthening muscles and improving prosthesis adaptation. Muscle strengthening targeted the hip segment, prioritizing the abdominal muscles, hip flexors, extensors, adductors and abductors, followed by cicatricial mobilization and weight-bearing on the stump for desensitization. Assessment and measures were performed across the kinetic and kinematic parameters of gait. In the comparison between pre-and post-intervention, a significant increase in gait speed (0.68-2.98, 95% CI, 1.83, effect size ES) and cadence (0.56-2.69, 95% CI, 1.63, ES) was found between groups and time points. Step (0.73-3.11, 95% CI, 1.92, ES) and stride length (0.62-2.84, 95% CI, 1.73) increased between pre- and post-intervention, while in the control group both variables remained smaller. The intervention group decreased stance phase as a percentage of gait cycle between pre- and post-intervention (- 1.33-0.62, 95% CI, - 36, ES), while it increased in the control group. Improvement in a combination of important gait parameters indicates that the intervention protocol promoted the adaptation to prosthesis and the functional independence of individuals with lower limb amputation. It is recommended that the participants continue receiving follow-up assessments and rehabilitation interventions.

RELIABILITY OF WIRELESS INSOLE BAROPODOMETRY OF NORMAL INDIVIDUAL'S GAIT.

OBJECTIVE: The plantar pressure distribution can be assessed quantitatively by computerized baropodometry such as carpet or insole. An insole-type system with wireless transmission was developed and plantar pressure results were previously validated by force platform. However, the reproducibility of the system had not been determined. Our objective was to evaluate the reliability of the results in different gait cycles, clinical characteristics and in different plantar anatomical sites. METHODS: 41 healthy adults (age, 34 ± 13 years; body mass index, 25 ± 5 kg/m2; 26 [63%], male, 26 [63%] practicing physical activity) were evaluated. Baropodometer evaluations were performed in 3 walking cycles with 100 m each, and the reliability between the cycles was examined. Pressure points on the heel, first metatarsal, fifth metatarsal and total plantar pressure were analyzed and compared. RESULTS: Moderate agreement was identified between the second and third cycles (ICC, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.14-0.83). Physical activity practitioners showed higher total plantar pressure (70.8 vs 68.2 Kpa; p = 0.04) and higher pressure in the heel (70.7 vs 68.1 Kpa; p = 0.036) in relation to sedentary ones. CONCLUSION: The insole was able to assess plant pressure with moderate reliability from the adaptation period. Level of Evidence III, Case control study - Investigating a diagnostic test.

OBJETIVO: A distribuição da pressão plantar pode ser avaliada quantitativamente por baropodometria computadorizada tipo tapete ou palmilha. Um sistema tipo palmilha com transmissão sem fio foi desenvolvido, cujos resultados de pressão plantar foram previamente validados por plataforma de força. No entanto, a reprodutibilidade do sistema não havia sido determinada. Nosso objetivo foi avaliar a confiabilidade dos resultados em relação a diferentes ciclos de marcha, características clínicas e em diferentes sítios anatômicos plantares. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 41 adultos saudáveis (idade, 34 ± 13 anos; índice de massa corpórea, 25 ± 5 kg/m2; 26 [63%], sexo masculino, 26 [63%] praticantes de atividade física). Avaliações com o baropodômetro foram realizadas em 3 ciclos de marcha com distância de 100 m, e avaliada a concordância entre os ciclos. Pontos de pressão no calcanhar, primeiro metatarsal, quinto metatarsal e a pressão plantar total foram analisados e comparados. RESULTADOS: Houve moderada concordância entre o segundo e terceiro ciclos (CCI, 0,66; IC95%, 0,14-0,83). Praticantes de atividades físicas apresentaram pressão plantar total (70,8 vs 68,2 Kpa; p = 0,04) e no calcanhar (70,7 vs 68,1 Kpa; p = 0,036) aumentada em relação aos sedentários. CONCLUSÃO: A palmilha foi capaz de avaliar a pressão plantar com confiabilidade moderada a partir do período de adaptação. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo diagnóstico - Investigando um teste diagnóstico.

Effectiveness of a home-based therapeutic exercise program on lower back pain and functionality in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) patients.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effectiveness of a home-based therapeutic exercise program on lower back pain and functionality of SCD patients. SETTING: A Hematology and Transfusion Medicine Center, University of Campinas (HEMOCENTRO-UNICAMP). METHODS: This was a prospective study, with a three-month follow-up of SCD patients with lower back pain. The lumbar spine functionality was evaluated by questionnaires, trunk flexion and extension analyses by fiber-optic-electrogoniometry and measurements of muscle strength of trunk flexor and extensors. The Intervention Group (IG) comprised 18 volunteers, median age 44y (28-58) and the control group (CG) comprised 15 volunteers, median age 42y (19-58), who did not perform exercises. The protocol consisted of daily home-based exercises with two evaluations: at the beginning and end of a three-month program. In order to compare the groups at baseline, the Fisher´s exact test and Mann-Whitney test were used for categorical and numeric variables, respectively. The Wilcoxon test was used for related samples comparing numeric measures of each group over time with a 5% (p < 0.05) significance level. RESULTS: After the intervention, patients demonstrated a significant improvement, according to the Visual-Analog-Scale (VAS; p = 0.01), Rolland Morris Disability questionnaire (RMDQ; p < 0.01) and trunk flexion and extension muscle strength (p < 0.01). No significant differences were found for the Start-Back-Screening-Tool-Brazil (SBST) and in measures of trunk flexion and extension range-of-motion (RoM). CONCLUSION: Results suggest that daily home-based exercises for a three-month period ameliorate pain and improve disability related to lower back pain and muscle strength.

ORTHOPEDIC RELATED COMORBIDITIES IN SPINAL CORD-INJURED INDIVIDUALS.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to review, identify and study the determinations of the main orthopedic aspects in SCI patients. METHODS: A total of 80 articles from PUBMED and three theses (MSc. /DSc.) were examined. RESULTS: The results refer to the most essential joints. There is a chronic overload on the shoulder girdle due to the use of the upper limb as a supporting joint. The elbow presents osteoarthritis, subclinical, acute and chronic pain, mainly in quadriplegic patients. In the hand and wrist joints there are cases of paralysis, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Hips are the main weight-bearing joints while sitting which leads to a substantial degenerative process of this joint. Lastly, on the knee, feet and ankles, spasticity, contractures, osteoporosis and deformities can arise. CONCLUSION: Along with the increase in cases and research that analyze the alterations that spinal cord-injured individuals suffer, it is necessary to recognize the orthopedic changes to understand their limits and identify the relevance of the rehabilitation program to improve the muscle performance. Level of Evidence II, Prognostic Studies - Investigating the Effect of a Patient Characteristic on the Outcome of Disease.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo do estudo foi identificar, através de uma revisão sistemática, os aspectos ortopédicos e suas determinações nos pacientes lesados medulares. MÉTODOS: Foram examinados 80 artigos na base Pubmed e três teses de mestrado e doutorado. RESULTADOS: Os resultados obtidos referem-se às principais articulações. No ombro há uma sobrecarga crônica na cintura escapular devido ao uso como articulação de suporte. O cotovelo apresenta alterações osteocartilaginosas e dores subaguda, aguda e crônica principalmente no paciente tetraplégico. Nas articulações da mão e punho, a lesão leva à perda da capacidade de compressão por paralisia, osteoporose e osteoartrite. O quadril constitui a principal articulação de sustentação de peso quando sentado, ocorrendo um processo degenerativo importante nesses pacientes. Nos joelhos, pés e tornozelos surgem espasticidade, contraturas e osteoporose levando a deformidades. CONCLUSÃO: Devido ao aumento de casos e de pesquisas que analisam as alterações que os lesados medulares sofrem, se faz necessário o conhecimento das alterações ortopédicas do lesado medular para compreendermos a sua limitação e identificar a relevância do programa de reabilitação para melhora da performance muscular. Nível de Evidência II, Estudos Prognósticos - Investigação do efeito de característica de um paciente sobre o desfecho da doença.

SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACT OF MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT VICTIMS IN THE EMERGENCY ROOM OF A HOSPITAL (PART 2).

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the socioeconomic impact of motorcycle accidents of a metropolis with one million inhabitants treated by a university hospital in 2017. To study hospital cost and time of victims, evaluate definite and incapacitating sequelae, and analyze patient's insertion in the labor market six months after the accident. METHODS: Retrospective study of 62 victims of motorcycle accidents treated in the emergency room and referred for surgical procedure in a university hospital. Data were collected from medical records and answers via telephone six months after the trauma. RESULTS: Injuries related to motorcycle accident resulted in high hospital costs. Average loss per patient was R$ 17,555. Of those who answered the functional impact questionnaire, 64% were on paid leave by INSS and 84% presented partial or permanent physical disabilities after the accident. Only 9 people (36%) received any kind of financial benefit from public authorities. CONCLUSION: High costs are directly related to hospitalization time and surgical needs. Most victims needed financial help and had their social lives aggravated. Investments in motorcyclists' awareness of traffic laws and use of safety equipment are needed, as well as in road infrastructure. Level of evidence II, Prognostic studies.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o impacto socioeconômico de acidentes motociclísticos de uma metrópole com mais de um milhão de habitantes atendidos, no ano de 2017, em um hospital universitário. Estudar custo e tempo de internação hospitalar das vítimas, avaliar sequelas definitivas e incapacitantes e analisar a inserção no mercado de trabalho seis meses depois do acidente. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo de 62 pacientes vítimas de acidentes motociclísticos, atendidos na urgência e emergência, levados para procedimento cirúrgico de um hospital universitário. Coleta de dados através do levantamento de prontuários e contato telefônico seis meses após o trauma. RESULTADOS: Lesões relacionadas às vítimas implicaram elevados custos hospitalares. Prejuízo médio por paciente foi de R$ 17.555. Dos que responderam ao questionário do impacto funcional, 64% ficaram afastados da atividade laboral pelo INSS e 84% apresentaram incapacidades físicas parciais ou permanentes após o acidente. Apenas 9 (36%) receberam algum tipo de benefício financeiro do governo. CONCLUSÃO: Elevados custos estão diretamente relacionados ao tempo de internação e necessidades cirúrgicas. A maioria das vítimas necessitou de auxílio financeiro e teve sua vida social prejudicada. Investimentos em conscientização dos motociclistas, para que conduzissem respeitando as leis de trânsito e utilizando equipamentos de segurança, e na infraestrutura das rodovias são necessários. Nível de evidência II, Estudo prognóstico.

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT VICTIMS IN UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the epidemiological profile of motorcycle accident victims in a metropolis with more than one million inhabitants attended in a university hospital of reference in 2017. METHODS: a retrospective study through the analysis of medical records of 105 motorcycle accident victims in Campinas (SP) attended in a university hospital of reference and who needed surgical procedure in 2017. RESULTS: 87 patients (82.9%) were men. Multiple fractures were observed in 61 patients (58.1%) and polytrauma was found in 14 patients (13.3%). Tibial fracture was the most frequent, present in 65 cases (61.9%). Exposed fractures occurred in 68 patients (64.7%). Among the polytrauma victims, the most frequent injury was traumatic brain injury (TBI), present in seven patients (6.6%). The mean age was 29.8 years (range 6-63 years). The average length of hospital stay was 14 days (1-87). CONCLUSION: It is essential to investigate and evaluate the victims' epidemiological profile, as well as the resulting injuries, in order to provide adequate support for the implementation of measures aimed at primary prevention and awareness of the most affected groups. Level of Evidence II, Prognostic studies - Investigating the effect of a patient characteristic on the outcome of disease.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o perfil epidemiológico das vítimas de acidentes motociclísticos ocorridos em uma metrópole com mais de 1 milhão de habitantes atendidas em um hospital universitário de referência no ano de 2017. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo através da análise de prontuários de 105 vítimas de acidentes motociclísticos ocorridos em Campinas, SP, Brasil, no ano de 2017 atendidas em um hospital universitário de referência que necessitaram de procedimento cirúrgico. RESULTADOS: Oitenta e sete pacientes (82,9%) eram do sexo masculino. Foram verificadas polifraturas em 61 pacientes (58,1%) e politraumatismo em quatorze (13,3%). A fratura de tíbia foi a mais frequente, presente em 65 casos (61,9%). Fraturas expostas ocorreram em 68 pacientes (64,7%). Entre as vítimas de politraumatismo, a lesão mais recorrente foi o traumatismo cranioencefálico (TCE), presente em sete pacientes (6,6%). A média de idade foi 29,8 anos (variando de 6-63 anos). O tempo de internação médio foi 14 dias (1-87). CONCLUSÃO: É fundamental investigar e avaliar o perfil epidemiológico das vítimas, assim como os agravos resultantes, de modo a propiciar subsídio adequado para implementação de medidas de prevenção primária e conscientização, especialmente direcionadas para os grupos mais acometidos. Nível de Evidência II, Estudos prognósticos - Investigação do efeito de característica de um paciente sobre o desfecho da doença.