Rehabilitation (exercise and strength training) and osteoarthritis: A critical narrative review

Recent Advances in Hydrogel Technology in Delivering Mesenchymal Stem Cell for Osteoarthritis Therapy

Osteoarthritis (OA), a chronic joint disease affecting over 500 million individuals globally, is characterized by the destruction of articular cartilage and joint inflammation. Conventional treatments are insufficient for repairing damaged joint tissue, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), with their potential for differentiation and self-renewal, hold great promise as a treatment for OA. However, challenges such as MSC viability and apoptosis in the ischemic joint environment hinder their therapeutic effectiveness. Hydrogels with biocompatibility and degradability offer a three-dimensional scaffold that support cell viability and differentiation, making them ideal for MSC delivery in OA treatment. This review discusses the pathological features of OA, the properties of MSCs, the challenges associated with MSC therapy, and methods for hydrogel preparation and functionalization. Furthermore, it highlights the advantages of hydrogel-based MSC delivery systems while providing insights into future research directions and the clinical potential of this approach.

Home-based circuit training improves blood lipid profile, liver function, musculoskeletal fitness, and health-related quality of life in overweight/obese older adult patients with knee osteoarthritis and type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial during the COVID-19 pandemic

BACKGROUND

There is strong evidence showing the association between obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and knee pain resulting from osteoarthritis. Regular exercise has been reported as a foundational piece of the preventive therapy puzzle for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients. Nonetheless, evidence-based exercise protocols for people with comorbidities, such as obesity, T2DM, and KOA are limited. Therefore, the present trial aimed to assess the effectiveness of a 12-week home-based circuit training (HBCT) protocol on various indices related to cardiometabolic health, musculoskeletal fitness, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among overweight/obese older adult patients with KOA and T2DM during the COVID-19 lockdown.

METHODS

This is a randomized controlled trial study registered at the National Medical Research Register (ID: RSCH ID-21-01180-KGTNMRR ID-21-02367-FUM) and obtained approval on December 9, 2021. Seventy overweight or obese patients with KOA and T2DM (62.2 ± 6.1 years; 56% female) were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n = 35, HBCT) or the no-exercise control group (n = 35, CON). HBCT performed a 12-week progressive protocol (seven exercises; 15-30 repetitions per exercise, 1 min passive rest between exercises; 2-4 rounds per session; 20-60 min total session duration). Blood samples were collected, and assays were performed to assess the lipid profile, liver function, and fasting blood glucose (FBG). In addition, the 30-s Chair Stand Test (30CST) was used to evaluate lower body muscular strength and endurance while the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test was used to evaluate lower limb function, mobility, and the risk of falls for all the participants. HRQoL was assessed using the Osteoarthritis Knee and Hip Quality of Life (OAKHQoL). All the assessments were conducted at pre-, mid-, and post-training stages during the application or practice of the exercise protocol, rather than during the training sessions themselves.

RESULTS

HBCT significantly reduced total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, FBG and knee pain (p < 0.05). Furthermore, HBCT induced meaningful increases in high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C), lower body muscular strength, endurance, function, mobility, and HRQoL in overweight/obese older adults with T2DM and KOA (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The present outcomes recommend that an injury-free HBCT program may improve various indicators related to cardiometabolic health, musculoskeletal fitness, and HRQoL in elderly with overweight/obesity, T2DM and KOA. These findings offer valuable insights for clinicians and practitioners seeking evidence-based exercise interventions tailored for patients managing substantial metabolic and musculoskeletal health challenges in clinical practice.

Preoperative lifestyle modifications combined with a structured exercise protocol on patient outcomes following total knee replacement surgery: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Medical guidelines recommend structured prehabilitation protocols consisting of lifestyle modifications and exercise to enhance post-operative outcomes for patients undergoing a total knee replacement (TKR). However, current research showing effectiveness is limited and has primarily focused on outcomes of exercise-based prehabilitation.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate whether a structured prehabilitation protocol consisting of exercise and lifestyle modifications improves physical function and patient-reported outcomes following TKR surgery compared with usual care.

DESIGN

Systematic review.

METHODS

Five databases were searched to identify randomised controlled trials comparing structured prehabilitation programs consisting of lifestyle modifications and exercise, with usual care, for those undergoing a TKR. Methodological quality of included studies was assessed via the RoB 2.0 tool and results synthesis via a Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach was performed to determine the certainty evidence for each outcome.

RESULTS/FINDINGS

Four studies were included in this review. Despite a positive trend supporting the inclusion of a structured prehabilitation protocol, additional improvements in post-operative pain, physical function and self-reported function were only seen in one study. Reductions in hospital length of stay were also seen in one study. No additional improvements in post-operative quality of life following prehabilitation were reported.

CONCLUSION

Limited evidence supporting prehabilitation reported in our review is likely attributed to the intervention type, intensity, and delivery model of included studies. However, there remains to be strong evidence supporting the use of a structured prehabilitation protocol consisting of lifestyle modifications and exercise to improve post-operative outcome.

Responsiveness and minimal important changes of the OARSI core set of performance-based measures in patients with knee osteoarthritis following physiotherapy intervention

PURPOSE

The Osteoarthritis Research Society International has recommended a core set of performance-based tests of physical function for use in knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients. The core set includes 30-second chair stand test (30-s CST), 4 × 10 m fast-paced walk test (40-m FPWT), and a stair climb test. This study aimed to evaluate responsiveness and minimal important changes (MICs) of these performance-based measures in knee OA patients following physiotherapy.

METHODS

Sixty patients with knee OA, undergoing 4-week physiotherapy performed 30-s CST, 40-m FPWT, and 4-step stair climb test (4-step SCT) at pre- and post-intervention. Patients also completed the 7-point global rating scale as an external anchor at post-intervention. Responsiveness was evaluated using receiver operating characteristics curve and correlation analysis.

RESULTS

All three performance-based measures of physical function showed area under the curve > 0.70. Correlation analysis showed relationship of 30-s CST, 40-m FPWT, and 4-Step SCT with the external anchor fell within moderate to good range (Spearman = 0.43-0.63). Furthermore, MIC values reflecting improvement for 30-s CST, 40-m FPWT, and 4-Step SCT were 2.5, 0.21, and 3.21, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrated all three performance-based measures have good responsiveness to measure improvement in physical functions of knee OA patients following physiotherapy. The MIC reflecting improvement can help clinicians and researchers to make a decision based on the clinical significance of improvements in patients' functional status.

The Critical Role of Physical Activity and Weight Management in Knee and Hip Osteoarthritis: A Narrative Review

Physical activity (PA) and weight management are critical components of an effective knee and hip osteoarthritis (OA) management plan, yet most people with OA remain insufficiently active and/or overweight. Clinicians and their care teams play an important role in educating patients with OA about PA and weight management, eliciting patient motivation to engage in these strategies, and referring patients to appropriate self-management interventions. The purpose of this review is to educate clinicians about the current public health and clinical OA guidelines for PA and weight management and highlight a variety of evidence-based self-management interventions available in community and clinical settings and online.

Application of human platelet lysate in chondrocyte expansion promotes chondrogenic phenotype and slows senescence progression via BMP-TAK1-p38 pathway

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common musculoskeletal degenerative. OA treatments are aiming to slow down disease progression; however, lack of cartilage regeneration efficacy. Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) is a promising cartilage-regeneration strategy that uses human articular chondrocytes (HACs) as cellular materials. However, the unreadiness of HACs from prolonged expansion, cellular senescence, and chondrogenic dedifferentiation occurred during conventional expansion, thus, minimizing the clinical efficacy of ACI. We aimed to examine the effects of a human platelet lysate (HPL) as an alternative human-derived HAC medium supplement to overcome the limitations of conventional expansion, and to explain the mechanism underlying the effects of HPL. During passages 2-4 (P2-P4), HPL significantly increased HAC proliferation capacities and upregulated chondrogenic markers. Simultaneously, HPL significantly reduced HAC senescence compared with conventional condition. HACs treated with LDN193189 exhibited a reduction in proliferation capacity and chondrogenic marker expression, whereas the HAC senescence increased slightly. These findings indicated involvement of BMP-2 signaling transduction in the growth-assistive, anti-senescent, and chondrogenic-inductive properties of HPL, which demonstrated its beneficial effects for application as HAC medium supplement to overcome current expansion limitations. Finally, our findings support the roles of platelets in platelet-rich plasma as a promising treatment for patients with OA.

Face and Predictive Validity of MI-RAT (Montreal Induction of Rat Arthritis Testing), a Surgical Model of Osteoarthritis Pain in Rodents Combined with Calibrated Exercise

Validating animal pain models is crucial to enhancing translational research and response to pharmacological treatment. This study investigated the effects of a calibrated slight exercise protocol alone or combined with multimodal analgesia on sensory sensitivity, neuroproteomics, and joint structural components in the MI-RAT model. Joint instability was induced surgically on day (D) 0 in female rats (N = 48) distributed into sedentary-placebo, exercise-placebo, sedentary-positive analgesic (PA), and exercise-PA groups. Daily analgesic treatment (D3-D56) included pregabalin and carprofen. Quantitative sensory testing was achieved temporally (D-1, D7, D21, D56), while cartilage alteration (modified Mankin's score (mMs)) and targeted spinal pain neuropeptide were quantified upon sacrifice. Compared with the sedentary-placebo (presenting allodynia from D7), the exercise-placebo group showed an increase in sensitivity threshold (p < 0.04 on D7, D21, and D56). PA treatment was efficient on D56 (p = 0.001) and presented a synergic anti-allodynic effect with exercise from D21 to D56 (p < 0.0001). Histological assessment demonstrated a detrimental influence of exercise (mMs = 33.3%) compared with sedentary counterparts (mMs = 12.0%; p < 0.001), with more mature transformations. Spinal neuropeptide concentration was correlated with sensory sensitization and modulation sites (inflammation and endogenous inhibitory control) of the forced mobility effect. The surgical MI-RAT OA model coupled with calibrated slight exercise demonstrated face and predictive validity, an assurance of higher clinical translatability.

Biomechanical effects of typical lower limb movements of Chen-style Tai Chi on knee joint

The load and stress distribution on cartilage and meniscus of the knee joint in typical lower limb movements of Chen-style Tai Chi (TC) and deep squat (DS) were analyzed using finite element (FE) analysis. The loadings for this analysis consisted of muscle forces and ground reaction force (GRF), which were calculated through the inverse dynamic approach based on kinematics and force plate measurements obtained from motion capture experiments. Thirteen experienced practitioners performed four typical TC movements, namely, single whip (SW), brush knee and twist step (BKTS), stretch down (SD), and part the wild horse's mane (PWHM), which exhibit lower posture and greater lower limb force compared to other TC styles. The results indicated that TC required greater lower limb muscle strength than DS, resulting in greater knee joint forces. The stress on the medial cartilage in SW and BKTS fell within a range conductive to maintaining the balance between anabolism and catabolism of cartilage matrix. This was due to the fact that SW and BKTS reduce the medial to total tibiofemoral contact force ratios through knee abduction, which may effectively alleviate mild medial knee osteoarthritis (KOA). However, the greater medial contact force ratios observed in SD and PWHM resulted in great contact stresses that may aggravate the pain of patients with KOA. To mitigate these effects, practitioners should consider elevating their postures appropriately to reduce knee flexion angles, especially during the single-leg support phase. This adjustment can decrease the required muscle strength, load and stress on the knee joint.

Conventional rehabilitation post-TKA achieves better knee flexion with higher resource utilization compared to application-based rehabilitation - a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Post-operative physiotherapy is a major component of the effectiveness of knee replacement. Adequate rehabilitation protocols are required for better functional outcomes. With the advent of smartphones and smartwatches, the use of telerehabilitation has increased recently. This study aims to compare tele rehabilitation using various mobile-based applications to conventional rehabilitation protocols.

Methods

From Jan 2000 to Jun 2022, all the RCTs from SCOPUS, EMBASE and PUBMED comparing patient-related outcome measures between the smartphone-based app and conventional rehabilitation protocols were scanned and seven studies meeting the eligibility criteria were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The quantitative analysis compared outcomes using the knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS), the knee society function score (KSFS), the active range of motion (AROM), Euro-Qol-5D-5L, and MUA. The qualitative analysis compared VAS, NRS, and Time up and go (TUG).

Results

The study shows statistically significant improvement in traditional rehabilitation over app based on KSFS score (M.D.: 6.05, p = 0.05) and AROM on long-term follow-up (12 months) (M.D.: 2.46, p = 0.02). AROM was insignificant on 3 months or less follow-up. NRS and VAS were found to be statistically better in app-based groups. No statistically significant results were seen on KOOS, Euro-Qol-5D-5L, MUA and TUG. 90 days of readmission and a number of physiotherapy visits were more in conventional groups. No difference was seen in single-leg stance and satisfaction rates.

Conclusions

The present review highlights improved early pain scores and comparable patient-reported outcome analysis at a short-term follow-up period among patients receiving mobile app-based rehabilitation. However, knee range of motion and KSFS score achieved after surgery is analysed to be better with traditional rehabilitation at the one-year end follow-up period.

Simulated Increase in Monoarticular Hip Muscle Strength Reduces the First Peak of Knee Compression Forces During Walking

Reducing compressive knee contact forces (KCF) during walking could slow the progression and reduce symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. A previous study has shown that compensating for the hip flexion/extension moment could reduce the KCF peak occurring during early stance (KCFp1). Therefore, this study aimed to identify if monoarticular hip muscle could allow this compensation while considering different walking strategies. Gait trials from 24 healthy participants were used to make musculoskeletal models, and five load-cases were examined: (I) Normal, (II) with an applied external moment compensating for 100% of the hip flexion/extension moment, and (III-V) three conditions with isolated/combined 30% increase of peak isometric strength of gluteus medius and maximus. Knee contact forces, hip muscle forces, and joint moments were computed. A cluster analysis of the Normal condition was performed with hip and knee flexion/extension moment during KCFp1 as input to examine the influence of different walking strategies. The cluster analysis revealed two groups having significantly different hip and knee moments in early-stance (p < 0.01). The reduction in KCFp1 from the Normal condition, although present in both groups, was greater for the group with the highest hip and lowest knee flexion/extension moments for all conditions tested (II: -21.82 ± 8.71% versus -6.03 ± 6.68%, III: -3.21 ± 1.09% versus -1.59 ± 0.96%, IV: -3.00 ± 0.89% versus -1.76 ± 1.04%, V: -6.12 ± 1.69 versus -3.09 ± 1.95%). This reduction in KCFp1 occurred through a shift in force developed by the hamstrings during walking (biarticular) to the gluteus medius and maximus (monoarticular), whose isometric strength was increased. The differences between the groups suggest that this reduction depends on the walking strategy.

A comparison between hypertonic dextrose prolotherapy and conventional physiotherapy in patients with knee osteoarthritis

The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of hypertonic dextrose prolotherapy (HDP) with conventional physiotherapy (CPT) in improving symptoms in females with knee osteoarthritis (OA). The present study included 60 patients with a diagnosis of knee OA. The patients were randomly assigned to the HDP (n=30) and CPT (n=30) groups. The patients in the HDP group were treated with a dextrose injection into the knee joint (25% dextrose) and around the knee (15% dextrose) in two sessions for 1 month, while those in the CPT group received a hot pack, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and therapeutic ultrasound in five sessions a week for 4 weeks. Prior to commencing the treatment, and at 1 and 3 months post-treatment, all the patients were evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), the goniometric measurement of active knee range of motion (ROM), a 50-m walking test and isokinetic knee muscle strength measurements. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups as regards the demographic characteristics at pre-treatment (P>0.05). However, at 1 and 3 months post-treatment, the scores of all the outcome parameters were significantly improved in the HDP group compared with the CPT group (P<0.05 for all). In both groups, a significant improvement was observed in the VAS scores, WOMAC total values and ROM following the treatments, with the greatest improvement observed in the HDP group (P<0.001). The isokinetic quadriceps peak torque measurements were increased in both groups following treatment. All the scores exhibited a statistically significant improvement in the HDP group at both 1 and 3 months post-treatment. On the whole, the results of the present study demonstrate that both HDP and CPT are effective treatment modalities to relieve pain, and increase functionality and strength in patients with knee OA. However, greater improvements in pain and functionality can be achieved with prolotherapy.

Current and Novel Therapeutics for Articular Cartilage Repair and Regeneration

Articular cartilage repair is a sophisticated process that has is being recently investigated. There are several different approaches that are currently reported to promote cartilage repair, like cell-based therapies, biologics, and physical therapy. Cell-based therapies involve the using stem cells or chondrocytes, which make up cartilage, to promote the growth of new cartilage. Biologics, like growth factors, are also being applied to enhance cartilage repair. Physical therapy, like exercise and weight-bearing activities, can also be used to promote cartilage repair by inducing new cartilage growth and improving joint function. Additionally, surgical options like osteochondral autograft, autologous chondrocyte implantation, microfracture, and others are also reported for cartilage regeneration. In the current literature review, we aim to provide an up-to-date discussion about these approaches and discuss the current research status.

Impact of end-stage knee osteoarthritis on perceived physical function and quality of life: A descriptive study from Jordan

OBJECTIVE

Of the present study was to evaluate the impact of end-stage knee OA on patient's perception of their functional abilities and quality of life (QoL) using the self-reported questionnaire; the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and to determine the contribution of knee pain on patient's perceived outcomes.

METHODS

Patients with end-stage knee OA who are on the waiting list for total knee arthroplasty were recruited in this cross-sectional study. Patients were asked to fill out the KOOS questionnaire. Knee pain for both sides was quantified on a continuous scale from 0-10. Age, and anthropometric data were recorded. Descriptive statistics were calculated for patients' characteristics, and for the scores of each KOOS subscale. Hierarchical linear regression models were created to determine the contributions of knee pain on two KOOS subscales; the function in daily living (KOOS-ADL), and the knee-related quality of life (KOOS-QoL).

RESULTS

Patients in this study scored low across KOOS subscales (27.7% - 54.2%) with the QoL subscale being the lowest. After accounting for age and BMI, hierarchical linear regressions revealed that knee pain in both sides were determinants of self-perceived KOOS-ADLs, while only knee pain in the most-affected side significantly contributed to lower KOOS-QOL scores.

CONCLUSION

End-stage knee OA negatively impact the patients' perceived function and quality of life. Patients' KOOS scores were similar to those reported in other countries, with QoL being the domain most affected. Our findings demonstrate that the level of knee pain has a determinant effect on our patients' perceptions of functional abilities and QoL. As waiting-list patients, addressing knee pain with a targeted regimen prior to TKA, as well as increasing patient's awareness about knee pain management, may improve/ or minimize deterioration in perceived functional ability and QoL while awaiting TKA.

Effect of low-level laser therapy plus exercise therapy on pain, range of motion, muscle strength, and function in knee osteoarthritis - a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is commonly associated with multiple musculoskeletal impairments.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this review was (1) to investigate the effectiveness of LLLT plus ET on pain, ROM, muscle strength, and function in KOA immediately after therapy and (2) whether the effectiveness of LLLT plus ET could be sustained at follow-up (4 - 32 weeks).

METHODS

Six databases were systematically searched upto December 2021 to find relevant articles. Included studies were RCTs written in English, which compared LLLT plus ET with placebo LLLT plus ET in KOA. Three independent reviewers extracted data and assessed the quality of included studies. Standard mean difference (SMD) was used in meta-analysis using random effect model.

RESULT

Of the 6307 articles, 14 RCTs (820 patients) met the inclusion criteria. The results demonstrated that there was a significant difference in pain immediately after therapy (SMD: -0.58, p = 0.001) and at follow-up (SMD: -1.35, p = 0.05) in LLLT plus ET group. There were no significant differences in knee ROM, muscle strength, and knee function outcomes immediately and at follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that LLLT plus ET could be considered to alleviate pain in the KOA. LLLT reduces pain at 4-8J with a wavelength of 640-905nm per point applied for 10-16 sessions at a frequency of 2 sessions/week. An exercise therapy program at prescribed dosage involving major muscle groups might help. However, LLLT plus ET is no more effective than placebo LLLT plus ET in improving ROM, muscle strength, and function in KOA.

Osteoarthritis: pathogenic signaling pathways and therapeutic targets

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disorder that leads to disability and affects more than 500 million population worldwide. OA was believed to be caused by the wearing and tearing of articular cartilage, but it is now more commonly referred to as a chronic whole-joint disorder that is initiated with biochemical and cellular alterations in the synovial joint tissues, which leads to the histological and structural changes of the joint and ends up with the whole tissue dysfunction. Currently, there is no cure for OA, partly due to a lack of comprehensive understanding of the pathological mechanism of the initiation and progression of the disease. Therefore, a better understanding of pathological signaling pathways and key molecules involved in OA pathogenesis is crucial for therapeutic target design and drug development. In this review, we first summarize the epidemiology of OA, including its prevalence, incidence and burdens, and OA risk factors. We then focus on the roles and regulation of the pathological signaling pathways, such as Wnt/β-catenin, NF-κB, focal adhesion, HIFs, TGFβ/ΒΜP and FGF signaling pathways, and key regulators AMPK, mTOR, and RUNX2 in the onset and development of OA. In addition, the roles of factors associated with OA, including MMPs, ADAMTS/ADAMs, and PRG4, are discussed in detail. Finally, we provide updates on the current clinical therapies and clinical trials of biological treatments and drugs for OA. Research advances in basic knowledge of articular cartilage biology and OA pathogenesis will have a significant impact and translational value in developing OA therapeutic strategies.

Physiotherapeutic Strategies and Their Current Evidence for Canine Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and debilitating condition in domestic dogs. Alongside pharmaceutical interventions and weight loss, exercise and physiotherapy (PT) are important measures in maintaining patient mobility and quality of life. Physiotherapy for OA aims to reduce pain, optimize muscular function and maintain joint function. Physiotherapeutic plans typically include PT exercises combined with therapeutic modalities, lifestyle and environmental modifications to improve the patient's overall quality of life and function. Information on therapeutic clinical efficacy of physiotherapeutic measures for canine OA is still very limited. Thus, physiotherapeutic strategies are still primarily based on evidence extrapolated from human protocols tailored to people with OA. The authors propose a simple systematic PT approach for canine OA, prioritizing measures according to simplicity, cost effectiveness and practicality. This guide (the "Physiotherapy Pyramid") aims to provide a clear stratified approach to simplify decision making and planning for owners, veterinarians and veterinary physiotherapists, leading to more straightforward design and implementation of treatment plans. Measures are implemented starting at the base of the pyramid, subsequently progressing to the top, allowing effective and practical interventions to be prioritized. The levels of the pyramid are in ascending order: environmental modification, exercise plan, OA-specific home exercises and treatment by a veterinary physiotherapist.

Effects of Circuit Training on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The most prevalent joint disease is osteoarthritis (OA), which affects an estimated 240 million individuals worldwide. Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is one of the top 10 causes of disability worldwide. The aim of this study is to systematically evaluate the effect of circuit training (CT) on patients with KOA. We searched through PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Cochrane, and Google Scholar up to 12 February 2022. We used random-effects statistical analysis for continuous variables and reported the results as a standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95 percent confidence intervals (CI). Seven trials involving 346 patients were included. A significant improvement in the intervention group was observed for the parameter, pain level (SMD -0.96, 95% CI -1.77 to -0.14; p = 0.02; seven trials, 346 participants; high quality evidence), while no significant improvement was found in physical function (SMD 0.03, 95% CI -0.44-0.50; p = 0.89; five trials, 294 participants; high-quality evidence), quality of life (SMD -0.25, 95% CI -1.18-0.68; p = 0.60; three trials, 205 participants; high-quality evidence), the activity of daily living (SMD 0.81, 95% CI -0.85-2.48; p = 0.34; three trials, 223 participants; high-quality evidence), and knee stiffness (SMD -0.65, 95% CI -1.96-0.66; p = 0.33; two trials, 71 participants; high-quality evidence). The findings in this meta-analysis suggest that CT could effectively complement the conventional treatment of KOA, particularly in alleviating pain. However, comprehensive data on the guidelines for the CT approach would be needed to adequately examine the effects of CT on quality of life and biochemical markers in patients with KOA.

Trends in Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Needs in China From 1990 to 2030: A Bayesian Age-Period-Cohort Modeling Study

Background

Disability and medical expenses caused by musculoskeletal disorders in China had a great impact on the global health and economy. Rehabilitation is essential for dealing with musculoskeletal disorders. However, China's musculoskeletal rehabilitation needs remain unknown. This study aimed to examine the secular trends for musculoskeletal rehabilitation needs in China from 1990 to 2030.

Methods

Data on musculoskeletal rehabilitation needs were extracted from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) repository. Estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were calculated to reflect fluctuations in the age-standardized rates. The Bayesian age-period-cohort models were used to project rehabilitation needs.

Results

The number of prevalent cases and years lived with disability (YLD) counts in need of musculoskeletal rehabilitation increased greatly in China from 1990 to 2019. There will be 465.9 million Chinese people in need of rehabilitation, with the age-standardized prevalence rate increasing to 21,151.0 [2.5–97.5% predictive interval (95% PI) 14,872.6–27,429.3] per 100,000 persons in 2030. Similarly, the YLD counts will increase to 40.1 million, with the age-standardized YLD rate increasing to 1,811.2 (95% PI 1,232.5–2,390.0) per 100,000 persons in 2030.

Conclusions

Increasing trends in musculoskeletal rehabilitation needs were found from 1990 to 2019, which will be anticipated through 2030. Rehabilitation is suggested to be integrated into primary care settings.

Linear Motor Driven Leg-Press Dynamometer for Testing, Training, and Rehabilitation: A Scoping Review with a Focus on the Concept of Serial Stretch Loading

Background: The purpose of this scoping review was to analyze the evidence of acute and long-term effects of the application of leg-press strength training with or without serial stretch-loading stimuli on various biomechanical and physiological outcomes. Methods: This review was performed in accordance with PRISMA for Scoping Reviews recommendations, and two researchers independently searched the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. All studies that used unique leg-press device for testing, acute responses and long-term adaptation were included in this review, irrespective of the measured outcomes. A total of 13 studies were included in this review, with 5 focused on the testing capabilities of the device and acute training responses and 8 focused on the long-term adaptations in various physical and physiological outcomes. Results: Regarding the acute responses after leg-press strength training with or without serial stretch-loading stimuli, visible changes were observed in the muscle force, rate of force development, and hormonal concentrations between pre- and postmenopausal women (only one study). Long-term studies revealed different training adaptations after performing leg-press strength training with unique serial stretch-loading stimuli. A positive trend for leg-press strength training with serial stretch-loading was recorded in the young population and athletes; however, more variable training effects favoring one or the other approach were achieved in the older population. Conclusions: In summary, this review shows the uniqueness and usability of a leg-press device that is capable of various exercising modes, including special serial stretch-loading stimuli. The use of this device can serve as a positive addition to training regiments, and the main application appears to be suitable for rehabilitation needs.

State of Knowledge on Molecular Adaptations to Exercise in Humans: Historical Perspectives and Future Directions

For centuries, regular exercise has been acknowledged as a potent stimulus to promote, maintain, and restore healthy functioning of nearly every physiological system of the human body. With advancing understanding of the complexity of human physiology, continually evolving methodological possibilities, and an increasingly dire public health situation, the study of exercise as a preventative or therapeutic treatment has never been more interdisciplinary, or more impactful. During the early stages of the NIH Common Fund Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium (MoTrPAC) Initiative, the field is well-positioned to build substantially upon the existing understanding of the mechanisms underlying benefits associated with exercise. Thus, we present a comprehensive body of the knowledge detailing the current literature basis surrounding the molecular adaptations to exercise in humans to provide a view of the state of the field at this critical juncture, as well as a resource for scientists bringing external expertise to the field of exercise physiology. In reviewing current literature related to molecular and cellular processes underlying exercise-induced benefits and adaptations, we also draw attention to existing knowledge gaps warranting continued research effort. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 12:3193-3279, 2022.

Effect of Prehabilitation Before Total Knee Replacement for Knee Osteoarthritis on Functional Outcomes: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Multidisciplinary prehabilitation before total knee replacement (TKR) for osteoarthritis may improve outcomes in the postoperative period.

OBJECTIVE

To compare multidisciplinary prehabilitation with usual care before TKR for osteoarthritis in terms of functional independence and activity limitations after surgery.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This prospective, open-label randomized clinical trial recruited participants 50 to 85 years of age with knee osteoarthritis according to the American College of Rheumatology criteria for whom a TKR was scheduled at 3 French tertiary care centers. Recruitment started on October 4, 2012, with follow-up completed on November 29, 2017. Statistical analyses were conducted from March 29, 2018, to March 6, 2019.

INTERVENTIONS

Four supervised sessions of multidisciplinary rehabilitation and education (2 sessions per week, at least 2 months before TKR, delivered to groups of 4-6 participants at each investigating center; session duration was 90 minutes and included 30 minutes of education followed by 60 minutes of exercise therapy) or usual care (information booklet and standard advice by the orthopedic surgeon) before TKR.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The short-term primary end point was the proportion of participants achieving functional independence a mean (SD) of 4 (1) days after surgery defined as level 3 on the 4 functional tests. The midterm primary end point was activity limitations within 6 months after TKR assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the self-administered Western Ontario Questionnaire and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index function subscale.

RESULTS

A total of 262 patients (mean [SD] age, 68.6 [8.0] years; 178 women [68%]) were randomized (131 to each group). A mean (SD) of 4 (1) days after surgery, 34 of 101 (34%) in the experimental group vs 26 of 95 (27%) in the control group achieved functional independence (risk ratio, 1.4; 97.5% CI, 0.9-2.1; P = .15). At 6 months, the mean (SD) area under the curve for the Western Ontario Questionnaire and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index function subscale was 38.1 (16.5) mm2 in the experimental group vs 40.6 (17.8) mm2 in the control group (absolute difference, -2.8 mm2; 97.5% CI, -7.8 to 2.3; P = .31 after multiple imputation). No differences were found in secondary outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This randomized clinical trial found no evidence that multidisciplinary prehabilitation before TKR for osteoarthritis improves short-term functional independence or reduces midterm activity limitations after surgery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01671917.

Relation between Handgrip Strength and Quality of Life in Patients with Arthritis in Korea: The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2015–2018

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between handgrip strength (HGS) and quality of life (QOL) in patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis (OA) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Materials and Methods: We enrolled 13,966 from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2015 to 2018. All participants underwent the health-related QOL assessment using the European Quality of Life Scale-Five dimensions (EQ-5D) and measured the HGS. The weak HGS was defined as the lowest quartile. We investigated the difference in QOL between patients with arthritis and the healthy control group and evaluated the correlation between weak HGS and QOL in arthritis patients. Results: Those diagnosed with OA or RA had significantly lower QOL than healthy controls. The weak HGS was significantly correlated with lower QOL in arthritis patients. Among OA patients, those with weak HGS revealed significantly higher odds ratios for impairment in all dimensions of EQ-5D. RA patients with weak HGS had significantly higher odds ratios for impairment in dimensions of mobility, self-care, usual activity, and pain/discomfort than those with normal HGS. Conclusions: These results suggest that weak HGS is significantly associated with decreased QOL in patients with arthritis.

A Co-creation Centre for Accessible Rehabilitation Technology

Background: The prevalence of disabling conditions is increasing globally. Rehabilitation improves function and quality of life across many conditions, particularly when applied intensively. The limited workforce, however, cannot deliver evidence-based intensive rehabilitation. By providing individuals with the tools for self- rehabilitation, technology helps bridge the gap between evidence and practise. Few people, however, can access rehabilitation technology. Barriers such as cost, training, education, portability and poor design stand in the way of equitable access. Our group of engineers and researchers have established a centre dedicated to developing accessible technology through close, frequent engagement with users and industry.

Methods: The centre employs a co-creation model, coupling engineering and science with user experience and industrial partnerships to develop accessible technology and associated processes. Due to the complexity and size of the challenge the initial focus is stroke. Recruited through a medical charity, participants, with a wide range of disabilities, use prototype and commercial technology during an 8-week rehabilitation programme with supervision from health professionals. The centre includes de-weighting systems, neurostimulation, virtual reality, treadmills, bespoke rehab games, communication apps, powered exercise equipment and gamified resistance equipment. Standard outcome measures (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health) are recorded before, during, immediately after, and 3 months after the intervention and used in combination with an interview to design the initial rehabilitation programme, which is reviewed fortnightly. Qualitative methods (surveys and interviews) are used to capture personal experiences of the programme and individual technology and an advisory group of stroke survivors help interpret outcomes to feed into the technology design process. Ethical approval has been granted for a pilot cohort study with stroke survivors, which is currently underway (01/09/2021–31/12/2021) investigating acceptability and feasibility, due to report findings in 2022.

Discussion: Through partnerships, research collaborations and a co-creation model a new centre dedicated to the development of accessible rehabilitation technology has been launched and currently undergoing acceptability and feasibility testing with stroke survivors. The centre, through its close engagement with users and industry, has the potential to transform the way rehabilitation technology is developed and help revolutionise the way rehabilitation is delivered.

Global estimates of the need for rehabilitation based on the Global Burden of Disease study 2019: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

BACKGROUND

Rehabilitation has often been seen as a disability-specific service needed by only few of the population. Despite its individual and societal benefits, rehabilitation has not been prioritised in countries and is under-resourced. We present global, regional, and country data for the number of people who would benefit from rehabilitation at least once during the course of their disabling illness or injury.

METHODS

To estimate the need for rehabilitation, data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2019 were used to calculate the prevalence and years of life lived with disability (YLDs) of 25 diseases, impairments, or bespoke aggregations of sequelae that were selected as amenable to rehabilitation. All analyses were done at the country level and then aggregated to seven regions: World Bank high-income countries and the six WHO regions (ie, Africa, the Americas, Southeast Asia, Europe, Eastern Mediterranean, and Western Pacific).

FINDINGS

Globally, in 2019, 2·41 billion (95% uncertainty interval 2·34-2·50) individuals had conditions that would benefit from rehabilitation, contributing to 310 million [235-392] YLDs. This number had increased by 63% from 1990 to 2019. Regionally, the Western Pacific had the highest need of rehabilitation services (610 million people [588-636] and 83 million YLDs [62-106]). The disease area that contributed most to prevalence was musculoskeletal disorders (1·71 billion people [1·68-1·80]), with low back pain being the most prevalent condition in 134 of the 204 countries analysed.

INTERPRETATION

To our knowledge, this is the first study to produce a global estimate of the need for rehabilitation services and to show that at least one in every three people in the world needs rehabilitation at some point in the course of their illness or injury. This number counters the common view of rehabilitation as a service required by only few people. We argue that rehabilitation needs to be brought close to communities as an integral part of primary health care to reach more people in need.

FUNDING

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Evaluation on curative effects of isokinetic muscle strength training for improving muscle function in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) refers to a chronic deteriorating disease distinguished by degeneration of joint cartilage. Many clinical studies have demonstrated that isokinetic muscle strength training can improve muscle function in patients with KOA. However, although such studies deduce an excellent effect, the results remain controversial. Therefore, the present systematic review seeks to explore the curative effects of isokinetic muscle strength training to establish if it can improve muscle function in patients experiencing KOA.

METHODS

This review will entail a systematic review and a comprehensive examination to establish all randomized controlled studies covering curative effects of isokinetic muscle strength training to improve muscle function in patients with KOA. We will obtain data from PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and WanFang databases from inception to September 2021. In addition, the study will employ the criterion postulated by Cochrane to ascertain a quality evaluation and risk assessment of the studies included for analysis. Also, we will employ relative risk, mean differences, and standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals to estimate the effective measures. Also, we will employ Cochran Q test and I2 statics to assess heterogeneity among the 2 studies.

RESULTS

Overall, this study anticipates providing accurate results and balanced inferences on curative effects of isokinetic muscle strength training for improving muscle function in patients with KOA.

CONCLUSION

The study's inferences will offer evidence to decide whether isokinetic muscle strength training is an effective measure for improving muscle function in patients with KOA.

Intra-articular Hymovis injection for managing hip OA in active sportsmen. A 24-month observational retrospective clinical investigation

BACKGROUND

Hip Osteoarthitis (OA) risk is sport-specific and depends on frequency, intensity, and type of mechanic stress the hip is subjected to. This retrospective observational study aims to investigate the safety and performance of Hymovis (HYADD-4) injection, a hexadecyl (C-16) HA-derivative, when used to manage symptomatic hip OA in active middle-aged sportsmen over a 24-month observation period.

METHODS

The retrospective analysis included clinical records of active sportsmen, aged between 40 and 65 years, and suffering from symptomatic Kellgren-Lawrence grade II to III hip OA, treated with two (24 mg/3 ml) Hymovis injections, two weeks apart, every 3-4 months, for two years. When available, data on MRI examination were included in the analysis as well as Heidelberg Sports Activity Score (HAS) and Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS) questionnaires.

RESULTS

Thirty patients (56.4 ± 7.3 years) were included in the study, sixteen cyclists and 14 tennis players. For all patients, HAS and most HAGOS scores improved significantly (p < 0.05) at the first control visit (4 months) and further improved over time. For all other scores an important clinical benefit was experienced by more than 50% of participants. No adverse events were recorded.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of hip OA in active sportsmen with Hymovis seems a safe and effective approach for the management of OA symptoms, by potentially protecting cartilage and subchondral bone from further damage.

Articular cartilage repair & joint preservation: A review of the current status of biological approach

The articular cartilage of the joint is the thin viscoelastic layer of the connective tissue. It has a unique anatomy and physiology, which makes the repair of the articular cartilage damage more difficult and challenging due to its limited healing capacity. Increasing knowledge regarding the importance of articular cartilage for joint preservation has led to increased attention on early identification of cartilage damage as well as degeneration in order to delay osteoarthritis. There are various treatment modalities ranging from preventive management, physical therapy, pharmacological, non-pharmacological and surgical treatments exist in current literature. However most of the studies have limited long term follow up and mainly consists of small case series and case reports. This is an up to date concise review discussing the available management options for articular cartilage damage starting to lifestyle modification to pharmacotherapy, physiotherapy, and osteobiologics till various joint preservation techniques that have been in use currently.

Clinical Effect of End-range Maitland Mobilization in the Management of Knee Osteoarthritis - A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND/AIM

Different manual therapy techniques and conservative therapy have been used separately for alleviation of pain and improvement of physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). However, no study has reported the effect of combination of these treatment modalities in the management of KOA. Our aim was to test the feasibility of the study design and to compare the effect of end-range Maitland mobilization to conservative therapy in KOA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifteen patients (conservative therapy group: CG) received conservative therapy alone, fifteen patients (Maitland plus conservative therapy group: M+CG) received additionally end-range Maitland mobilization during the 3-week study period. Outcomes were pain intensity, measured with visual analogue scale (VAS) in general and during functional activities, passive range of motion (PROM) and peak muscle force during knee flexion and extension, Timed Up and Go test and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT).

RESULTS

All outcomes improved significantly in both groups. Magnitude of changes was significantly greater in M+CG compared to CG regarding all VAS pain scores, flexion PROM of both knees, right hamstring peak muscle force and 6MWT.

CONCLUSION

With few modifications, this study design seems feasible for the comparison of end-range Maitland mobilization with conservative therapy in KOA. Moreover, end-range Maitland mobilization in addition to conservative therapy appeared more effective in relief of pain and improvement of functional status than conservative therapy alone in KOA.

Effects of hydrotherapy and land-based exercise on mobility and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a randomized control trial

[Purpose] To determine the effects of hydrotherapy and land-based exercises on functional mobility and quality of life among patients with knee osteoarthritis. [Participants and Methods] We conducted a randomized controlled trial with knee osteoarthritis patients randomly allocated into land-based (n=17) and hydrotherapy groups (n=17). The Time-Up and Go (TUG), Five Times Sit-to-Stand (5STS), Stair Climbing Test (SCT), and Quality of Life by questionnaires including the Modified Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index questionnaire Thai version (Thai WOMAC) were assessed at baseline and 6 weeks. The World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF Thai version (WHOQOL-BREF-THAI) questionnaire were assessed at baseline and six weeks and 6 months. [Results] There was no significant difference in outcomes between the groups after 6-weeks and 6-months of follow-up. After 6 weeks, Thai WOMAC score improved in both groups. Only 5STS was improved in the land-based group, while the hydrotherapy group showed significant TUG, 5STS, and SCT improvement. Furthermore, only hydrotherapy showed significant improvement in WHOQOL-BREF-THAI scores in the mental, social, quality of health, and total domains after six months. [Conclusion] Both exercises equally improved functional mobility and quality of life. Hydrotherapy and land-based exercise could improve functional mobility and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Effects of additional action observation to an exercise program in patients with chronic pain due to knee osteoarthritis: A randomized-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) leads to pain, stiffness, and functional impairment and eventually decreased level of the quality of life. Although several treatment methods have been used to achieve pain relief, patients still complain of pain.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the addition of action observation therapy to an exercise program on pain severity, pressure pain threshold, kinesiphobia functionality, and pain catastrophization in knee OA patients with chronic pain.

METHODS

This prospective, randomized-controlled, superiority trial included a total of 36 patients with knee OA. The patients were randomly divided into two groups as the treatment group (n = 18) receiving action observation therapy in addition to exercise and control group (n = 18) receiving exercise alone. The interventions were performed three times weekly for six weeks. The primary outcomes were pain and pressure pain threshold. Secondary outcomes were kinesiphobia, functionality, and pain catastrophization. All participants were assessed at baseline (pre-intervention) and after the six-week treatment (post-intervention).

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the primary and secondary outcome measures before and after the intervention between the groups (p > 0.05). Both groups showed a significant improvement in all outcome measures after the intervention (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Our study results suggest that action observation therapy in addition to an exercise program does not contribute any additional benefits to pain, pressure pain threshold, kinesiophobia, pain catastrophization, and functionality in knee OA patients with chronic pain. Nonetheless, further large-scale, long-term, prospective studies are needed to gain a better understanding on this subject.

High intensity resistance training as intervention method to knee osteoarthritis

High intensity resistance training (HI-RT) is a treatment option for Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA). Isotonic machines (leg press, leg extension) are utilized for standardization and reproducibility reasons, but the load used during the protocol is often low, considering that elder people usually have low strength levels, training so with high intensities calculated on low loads. The physiological response of an elder woman trained with high loads on a free weight exercise, the regular barbell deadlift, with a 1 Repetition Maximum (1RM) of 100 kg, can be appreciated in this report, so that for the first time we can see the effect of a one year of high intensity resistance training program on a powerlifting exercise on a 72 year-old woman with KOA. A Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) questionnaire was administered before starting the training program (T0) and after 1 year of training, as long as a control RX, to evaluate the effect of HI-RT on joint functionality and quality of life.

Recommended Musculoskeletal and Sports Medicine Curriculum for Internal Medicine Residency Training

ABSTRACT

Patients present to primary care physicians with musculoskeletal complaints more often than they do for upper respiratory infections, hypertension, or diabetes. Despite this, instruction in musculoskeletal medicine for internal medicine residents represents less than 1% of their total didactic and clinical education time. We recognize the immense breadth of knowledge and skill required to train residents in the practice of internal medicine. This curriculum guideline defines a recommended training strategy, and supplies relevant resources, to improve musculoskeletal education among internal medicine residents to optimize patient care. This curriculum guideline was created by internists who are sports medicine specialists. Sports medicine physicians promote overall health and well-being while providing expertise in acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, as well as how disease affects exercise and using exercise as medicine for people with chronic disease.

Clinical Application of TCM-Characteristic Rehabilitation Program after Total Knee Arthroplasty

<B>Objective:</B> To evaluate the effect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-characteristic rehabilitation program on levels of pain and swelling after total knee arthroplasty. <B>Methods:</B> A total of 72 in-patients who recovered from total knee arthroplasty in our department were selected as the study subjects. They were divided into two groups according to a random number table: the control group (n = 36) with routine nursing and the treatment group (n = 36) with TCM rehabilitation nursing. The pain scores and joint swelling were statistically analyzed. <B>Results:</B> The pain scores in the treatment group were lower than those in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).<B>Conclusion:</B> The implementation of a TCM rehabilitation program for patients after total knee arthroplasty can effectively and quickly reduce the pain and swelling of the affected limb, promote the local blood circulation, and promote the quality of life of patients after rehabilitation.

Lower education is an associated factor with the combination of pain catastrophizing and kinesiophobia in patients with knee osteoarthritis?

OBJECTIVES

To analyze if socioeconomic characteristics as lower education and lower family income are associated factors with the combination of pain catastrophizing and kinesiophobia in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 140 participants aged 40 years or older with KOA grades II and III. Based on the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK), four groups were identified: non-catastrophic/non-kinesiophobic (NC/NK), non-catastrophic/non-kinesiophobic (NC/K), catastrophic/non-kinesiophobic (C/NK), and catastrophic/kinesiophobic (C/K). Pain intensity was measured using the visual analog scale (VAS). The 30-s chair stand test was performed to access physical function. Sociodemographic characteristics included age, sex, years of formal education (0 to 11 and > 11), and family income (up to 2 minimum wages and > 2). Multinomial regression analysis adjusted for age, radiographic severity, physical function, and pain intensity was used to determine the association between lower education and lower family income with the combination of pain catastrophizing and kinesiophobia.

RESULTS

Only lower education was independently associated with the combination of pain catastrophizing and kinesiophobia (OR = 3.96 CI 95% 1.01-15.51).

CONCLUSIONS

Lower education but not lower family income was an important associated factor with the combination of pain catastrophizing and kinesiophobia in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Thus, physician and physical therapist must pay attention on this important socioeconomic characteristic while conducting the treatment, since specific strategies of approach could be necessary for those patients. Key points • Lower education is an important associated factor with the combination of pain catastrophizing and kinesiophobia in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. • Physician and physical therapist must pay attention on patients schooling while conducting the treatment.

The Effects of Physical Exercise on Pain Management in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review with Metanalysis

Objective  The present study verified, through a systematic review with meta-analysis, the effects of a rehabilitation, physical training program for the treatment of pain and muscle strength in knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods  We analyzed studies published between 2008 and 2018 referenced at the Medline (National Library of Medicine) database, selecting 7 randomized controlled clinical trials about exercise programs to improve pain and muscle strength in patients with knee OA with Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PeDro) score higher than 8. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) systematization was used to prepare this review, and a meta-analysis was carried out to obtain mathematical evidence the outcomes of physical exercise on pain. Results  The studies included in the analysis contained a total of 934 participants aged 40 to 73 years-old, with 34.90% males. Most of the exercise sets offered in OA treatment had a significantly positive outcome result in both criteria, but mainly for pain relief (statistically significant difference, p  < 0.003). Conclusion  We infer that there was an improvement of pain in all articles that performed muscle strengthening, but there is still an obstacle to the protocols used.

Efficacy of conservative treatments for hand osteoarthritis : An umbrella review of interventional studies

BACKGROUND

Hand osteoarthritis (OA) is common, but the efficacy/safety of treatment interventions aimed to improve health outcomes in this population are not well understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to map and grade the effect of interventions for health outcomes in hand OA.

METHODS

Umbrella review of systematic reviews with meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using placebo/no intervention as control group. For outcomes with a p-value <0.05, the certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE) assessment.

RESULTS

From 189 abstracts, 9 meta-analyses (24 outcomes) were included, with 8 reporting significant summary results. The use of splints was associated with reduced pain at medium term in thumb carpometacarpal OA (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.70; 95% confidence intervals [95% CI]: -1.05 to -0.35; low certainty), reduced pain in long follow-up RCTs in symptomatic hand OA (SMD = -0.80; 95% CI: -1.16; -0.45; moderate certainty), and better function (SMD = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.08; 0.70; low certainty). The use of resistance training (SMD = -0.27; 95% CI: -0.47; -0.07) or physical exercise (SMD = -0.23; 95% CI: -0.42; -0.04) in improving hand pain and in improving finger joint stiffness (SMD = -0.36; 95%CI: -0.58; -0.15) was supported by a moderate certainty of evidence. The use of intra-articular hyaluronic acid in improving function (MD = 1.12; 95% CI: 0.61; 1.64; moderate certainty of evidence) was the only statistically significant pharmacological intervention.

CONCLUSION

Only some non-pharmacological interventions are effective in improving health outcomes in hand OA and this evidence is supported by a moderate/low certainty, indicating the necessity of further interventional research.

Level of pain, muscle strength and posture: effects of PBM on an exercise program in women with knee osteoarthritis - a randomized controlled trial

To evaluate the effectiveness of an exercise program associated to photobiomodulation (PBM) on pain, postural changes, functionally, and muscular strength in women, one of the risk factors, with knee osteoarthritis (OA). A randomized controlled trial, with a blinded assessor and intention-to-treat analysis and placebo control. Sixty-two participants with knee OA (with confirmed radiological diagnosis) were evaluated for this study. However, 34 were considered eligible and were randomized into two groups: EPPG - exercise and PBM placebo group (n = 17) and EPAG - exercise and PBM active group (n = 16), but one participant was excluded of EPAG. The exercise program and PBM (808 nm, 100 mW/point, 4 J/point, 56 J total, 91 J/cm²) were realized twice a week, during 8 weeks. West Ontario and the McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Lequesne questionnaires, 1-repetition maximum test (1-RM) and posture evaluation software (SAPO) were used to analyze the effects of the therapies. In intragroup analysis, a significant improvement in pain WOMAC (p < 0.001), stiffness (p < 0.001), function (p < 0.001), Lequesne (p < 0.001), and 1-RM (all muscle groups) (p < 0.001) were observed. In this study, the exercise program improved pain, function, and muscle strength of all the participants. However, PBM, in the parameters used, did not optimize the effects of the exercise program in women with knee OA.

Effect of Aerobic Physical Activity on Health-Related Quality of Life in Middle Aged Women with Osteoarthritis: Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016-2017)

Background: There have been few studies reporting the association between health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and osteoarthritis (OA) in female subjects performing aerobic exercise or not. The aim of this study is to compare HRQoL between OA patients and non-OA subjects in middle aged Korean women (40–59 years) with/without aerobic physical activity, and also to identify an association between EQ-5D instrument based HRQoL and OA controlling for aerobic exercise. Methods: This study used the cross-sectional data, the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNANES) from 2016 to 2017. We only selected those who had completed the evaluations of aerobic physical activity and osteoarthritis diagnosis. In total, 2445 middle aged women were finally selected for this study. The European quality of life-5 dimensions (EQ-5D) was used for the evaluation of HRQoL as a dependent variable. In socio-demographic factors, age, sex, income level, education level, marital status, economic activity, type of insurance and private insurance and behaviour-related factors were included. One-way analysis of variance was conducted to compare the EQ-5D index and multiple linear regression analysis was employed to identify associated factors with the EQ-5D index. Results: In total, 2445 middle aged women were included in this study, in which 2209 participants were normal (90.0%) with aerobic physical activity (no: 55.0%, yes: 45.0%) and 246 participants were diagnosed with osteoarthritis (10.0%) with aerobic physical activity (no: 56.1%, yes: 43.9%). In group 2-2 (OA with aerobic), the moderate level of muscle exercise (less than 5 days per week) showed the highest HRQoL (p < 0.05) and high level exercise showed the lowest HRQoL (p < 0.05). In menopause status, the participants under menopause status showed lower HRQoL (p < 0.05) than those not under menopause status in group 2-2 (OA with aerobic) only. Conclusions: The HRQoL of OA patients was significantly lower than that of normal participants in middle aged Korean women (40–59 years). Especially, OA patients with maintained aerobic physical activity showed significantly higher HRQoL than those without that under controlling covariates such as age, income level, education level, marital status, economic activity, type of insurance, etc.

Exercise and Chronic Pain

In this chapter, we describe the impact and etiology of chronic pain, the associated changes in the nervous system, and the mechanisms by which exercise may be able to affect and reverse these changes. Evidence for efficacy of exercise in different conditions associated with chronic pain is presented, with focus on chronic low back pain, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and migraines. While the efficacy of exercise and level of evidence supporting it vary in different diseases, exercise has direct and indirect benefits for most patients suffering from chronic pain. Effective exercise regimens include education and cognitive restructuring to promote behavioral activation and reconceptualization of what pain means, with the goal of gradually reversing the vicious cycle of pain, inertia, sedentary behavior, and worsening disability. Long-term, consistent, individualized exercise-based treatment approaches are most likely to result in improvements in pain and function.

A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial for Aerobic and Strengthening Exercises on Physical Function and Pain for Hip Osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

Hip osteoarthritis (OA) limits lower extremity physical function. Exercise therapy may improve physical function and reduce pain in patients with hip OA.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to measure the effect of a structured hip-specific resistance and aerobic exercise program on physical function and self-reported pain in adults with hip OA.

DESIGN

Pilot RCT.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty one adults with radiographic hip OA.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomly allocated in a 2:1 ratio to a 3-month structured exercise intervention (n = 21) or a 3-month waitlist control (n = 10).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The 6-minute walk test was the primary outcome measure. Self-reported physical function was assessed with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) physical function subscale and pain visual analog scale (VAS). Measures of feasibility were assessed as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

From baseline to 3 months, the median change from baseline in distance covered during the 6-minute walk test in the intervention group (49 m) was double that of the control group (22 m), but the difference was not statistically significant (P = .13). Likewise, the WOMAC physical function subscale score median changes in the intervention group (5 points) were double that of the controls (2 points), although the difference was not statistically significant (P = .06). Median change in pain scores was slightly reduced in each group but not significantly different between groups (P = .53).

CONCLUSION

Although no statistically significant between-group differences were found in this pilot RCT, improvements were seen in measures of physical function compared to controls. A larger RCT of this structured exercise program may be warranted.

Resistance Training for Older Adults: Position Statement From the National Strength and Conditioning Association

Fragala, MS, Cadore, EL, Dorgo, S, Izquierdo, M, Kraemer, WJ, Peterson, MD, and Ryan, ED. Resistance training for older adults: position statement from the national strength and conditioning association. J Strength Cond Res 33(8): 2019-2052, 2019-Aging, even in the absence of chronic disease, is associated with a variety of biological changes that can contribute to decreases in skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function. Such losses decrease physiologic resilience and increase vulnerability to catastrophic events. As such, strategies for both prevention and treatment are necessary for the health and well-being of older adults. The purpose of this Position Statement is to provide an overview of the current and relevant literature and provide evidence-based recommendations for resistance training for older adults. As presented in this Position Statement, current research has demonstrated that countering muscle disuse through resistance training is a powerful intervention to combat the loss of muscle strength and muscle mass, physiological vulnerability, and their debilitating consequences on physical functioning, mobility, independence, chronic disease management, psychological well-being, quality of life, and healthy life expectancy. This Position Statement provides evidence to support recommendations for successful resistance training in older adults related to 4 parts: (a) program design variables, (b) physiological adaptations, (c) functional benefits, and (d) considerations for frailty, sarcopenia, and other chronic conditions. The goal of this Position Statement is to a) help foster a more unified and holistic approach to resistance training for older adults, b) promote the health and functional benefits of resistance training for older adults, and c) prevent or minimize fears and other barriers to implementation of resistance training programs for older adults.

Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia in Pain-Free and Chronic Pain Populations: State of the Art and Future Directions

Exercise is considered an important component of effective chronic pain management and it is well-established that long-term exercise training provides pain relief. In healthy, pain-free populations, a single bout of aerobic or resistance exercise typically leads to exercise-induced hypoalgesia (EIH), a generalized reduction in pain and pain sensitivity that occurs during exercise and for some time afterward. In contrast, EIH is more variable in chronic pain populations and is more frequently impaired; with pain and pain sensitivity decreasing, remaining unchanged or, in some cases, even increasing in response to exercise. Pain exacerbation with exercise may be a major barrier to adherence, precipitating a cycle of physical inactivity that can lead to long-term worsening of both pain and disability. To optimize the therapeutic benefits of exercise, it is important to understand how EIH works, why it may be impaired in some people with chronic pain, and how this should be addressed in clinical practice. In this article, we provide an overview of EIH across different chronic pain conditions. We discuss possible biological mechanisms of EIH and the potential influence of sex and psychosocial factors, both in pain-free adults and, where possible, in individuals with chronic pain. The clinical implications of impaired EIH are discussed and recommendations are made for future research, including further exploration of individual differences in EIH, the relationship between exercise dose and EIH, the efficacy of combined treatments and the use of alternative measures to quantify EIH. PERSPECTIVE: This article provides a contemporary review of the acute effects of exercise on pain and pain sensitivity, including in people with chronic pain conditions. Existing findings are critically reviewed, clinical implications are discussed, and recommendations are offered for future research.