Predictors of quality of life, functional status, depression and fatigue in early arthritis: comparison between clinically suspect arthralgia, unclassified arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is often preceded by symptomatic phases during which classification criteria are not fulfilled. The health burden of these "at-risk" stages is not well described. This study assessed health-related quality of life (HRQoL), function, fatigue and depression in newly presenting patients with clinically suspect arthralgia (CSA), unclassified arthritis (UA) or RA.

METHODS

Cross-sectional analysis of baseline Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) was conducted in patients from the Birmingham Early Arthritis Cohort. HRQoL, function, depression and fatigue at presentation were assessed using EQ-5D, HAQ-DI, PHQ-9 and FACIT-F. PROMs were compared across CSA, UA and RA and with population averages from the HSE with descriptive statistics. Multivariate linear regression assessed associations between PROMs and clinical and sociodemographic variables.

RESULTS

Of 838 patients included in the analysis, 484 had RA, 200 had CSA and 154 had UA. Patients with RA reported worse outcomes for all PROMs than those with CSA or UA. However, "mean EQ-5D utilities were 0.65 (95%CI: 0.61 to 0.69) in CSA, 0.61 (0.56 to 0.66) in UA and 0.47 (0.44 to 0.50) in RA, which was lower than in general and older (≥ 65 years) background populations." In patients with CSA or UA, HRQoL was comparable to chronic conditions such as heart failure, severe COPD or mild angina. Higher BMI and older age (≥ 60 years) predicted worse depression (PHQ-9: -2.47 (-3.85 to -1.09), P < 0.001) and fatigue (FACIT-F: 5.05 (2.37 to 7.73), P < 0.001). Women were more likely to report worse function (HAQ-DI: 0.13 (0.03 to 0.21), P = 0.01) and fatigue (FACIT-F: -3.64 (-5.59 to -1.70), P < 0.001), and residents of more deprived areas experienced decreased function (HAQ-DI: 0.23 (0.10 to 0.36), P = 0.001), greater depression (PHQ-9: 1.89 (0.59 to 3.18), P = 0.004) and fatigue (FACIT-F: -2.60 (-5.11 to 0.09), P = 0.04). After adjustments for confounding factors, diagnostic category was not associated with PROMs, but disease activity and polypharmacy were associated with poorer performance across all PROMs.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient-reported outcomes were associated with disease activity and sociodemographic characteristics. Patients presenting with RA reported a higher health burden than those with CSA or UA, however HRQoL in the pre-RA groups was significantly lower than population averages.

Risk of developing psoriatic arthritis in psoriasis cohorts with arthralgia: exploring the subclinical psoriatic arthritis stage

OBJECTIVE

Subjects with subclinical psoriatic arthritis (PsA), defined as the presence of arthralgia in psoriasis (PsO), are at higher risk of PsA but scant real-world data exist. Our aims were to (1) estimate the probability of PsA development in subclinical PsA, (2) characterise subclinical PsA symptoms and (3) determine the clinical patterns at PsA diagnosis.

METHODS

Patients with PsO, mainly subclinical PsA, were evaluated longitudinally in two European cohorts. The key outcome was new-onset PsA. Musculoskeletal symptoms including inflammatory and non-inflammatory symptoms before PsA diagnosis were collected. Occurrence of PsA was analysed with survival analysis and cumulative incidence functions (CIFs).

RESULTS

384 patients with PsO were included with a mean follow-up of 33.0 (±20.9) months. 311 of 384 (80.9%) had subclinical PsA with a PsA incidence rate of 7.7 per 100 patient-years. Subclinical PsA displayed a higher risk of PsA development compared with PsO (HR=11.7 (95% CI 1.57 to 86.7), p=0.016). The probability of new-onset PsA estimated by the CIF was 9.4% (95% CI 4.7% to 10.6%) at month 12 and 22.7% (95% CI 17.2% to 28.6%) at month 36. 58.9% of cases reported inflammatory symptoms in the months immediately prior to PsA diagnosis but prior non-inflammatory symptoms were evident in 83.9% prior to PsA diagnosis. Peripheral joint swelling was the predominant PsA presentation pattern (82.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

The probability of PsA development among subclinical PsA was relatively high, emphasising the importance of emergent musculoskeletal symptoms when aiming for PsA prevention. Joint swelling was the dominant feature in new-onset PsA, likely reflecting clinical confidence in recognising joint swelling.

Cooled radiofrequency ablation versus standard medical management for chronic sacroiliac joint pain: a multicenter, randomized comparative effectiveness study

INTRODUCTION

Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, with sacroiliac joint pain comprising up to 30% of cases of axial lower back pain. Conservative therapies provide only modest relief. Although placebo-controlled trials show efficacy for sacral lateral branch cooled radiofrequency ablation, there are no comparative effectiveness studies.

METHODS

In this randomized, multicenter comparative effectiveness study, 210 patients with clinically suspected sacroiliac joint pain who obtained short-term benefit from diagnostic sacroiliac joint injections and prognostic lateral branch blocks were randomly assigned to receive cooled radiofrequency ablation of the L5 dorsal ramus and S1-S3 lateral branches or standard medical management consisting of pharmacotherapy, injections and integrative therapies. The primary outcome measure was mean reduction in low back pain score on a 0-10 Numeric Rating Scale at 3 months. Secondary outcomes included measures of quality of life and function.

RESULTS

3 months post-treatment, the mean Numeric Rating Scale pain score for the cooled radiofrequency ablation group was 3.8±2.4 (mean reduction 2.5±2.5) compared with 5.9±1.7 (mean reduction 0.4±1.7) in the standard medical management group (p<0.0001). 52.3% of subjects in the cooled radiofrequency ablation group experienced >2 points or 30% pain relief and were deemed responders versus 4.3% of standard medical management patients (p<0.0001). Comparable improvements favoring cooled radiofrequency ablation were noted in Oswestry Disability Index score (mean 29.7±15.2 vs 41.5+13.6; p<0.0001) and quality of life (mean EuroQoL-5 score 0.68±0.22 vs 0.47±0.29; p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with sacroiliac joint pain, cooled radiofrequency ablation provided statistically superior improvements across the spectrum of patient outcomes compared with standard medical management.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03601949.

Socioeconomic variation in the prevalence of pain by anatomical sites among middle-aged and older adults in India: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Pain is a significant global public health concern, particularly among individuals aged 45 and above. Its impact on the overall lifestyle of the individuals varies depending on the affected anatomical parts. Despite its widespread impact, there is limited awareness of the attributes of pain, making effective pain management challenging, particularly in India. This study aims to estimate the prevalence and variation in pain in different anatomical sites among middle-aged and older adults in India.

METHODS

A cross-sectional design was employed, utilising data from the first wave of the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI), 2017-2018. The age-sex adjusted prevalence of pain by anatomical sites (the back, joints, and ankles) was estimated using a multivariate logistic regression model.

RESULTS

47% of individuals aged 45 years and above reported joint pain, 31% reported back pain and 20% suffered from ankle or foot pain. The prevalence of pain at all the anatomical sites increased with age and was reported higher among females. Relative to respondents aged 45-59 years, those aged 75 years and older exhibited a 41% higher likelihood of experiencing back pain (AOR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.19-1.67), a 67% higher likelihood of joint pain (AOR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.49-1.89), and a 32% higher likelihood of ankle/foot pain (AOR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.16-1.50). In comparison to males, females had a 56% higher likelihood of encountering back pain (AOR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.40-1.74), a 38% higher likelihood of joint pain (AOR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.27-1.50), and a 35% higher likelihood of ankle/foot pain (AOR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.17-1.57). We also found significant regional variations in pain prevalence, with higher rates in the mountainous regions of India.

CONCLUSION

This research highlights the high burden of pain in major anatomical sites among middle-aged and older adults in India and emphasises the need for increased awareness and effective pain management strategies.

Clinical features of patients with hands arthralgia referred from primary care physicians to rheumatologists: A cohort study

PURPOSE

Early referral of patients with suspicious of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has an impact on prognosis. Our study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics of patients with hands arthralgia who were referred from primary care physicians (PCP) to the rheumatologist.

METHODS

A descriptive, observational, prospective cohort study was performed. We included patients who visited a PCP for the first time for hands arthralgia. Demographics and the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology criteria for arthralgia suspicious for progression to RA plus seven complementary questions, the time to referral, the pressure needed to provoke pain with an automatic squeeze test machine in the metacarpophalangeal joints of both hands, and the diagnoses established at the last review of medical charts from patients on follow-up were documented. The primary outcome was the referral to a rheumatologist.

RESULTS

A total of 109 patients were included. The mean age was 49.9 years, 81.6% were women. 30.3% were referred to the rheumatologist. The time to referral was a median of 38 days. The main clinical characteristics associated with referral to the rheumatologist were the "most severe symptoms are present after midnight" (OR=6.29) and the "difficulty with making a fist" (OR=3.67). An isolated "positive squeeze test of metacarpophalangeal joints" was not associated with a referral to the rheumatologist.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with hands arthralgia who attended PCP, those with most severe symptoms after midnight and difficulty making a fist were more likely to be referred to the rheumatology clinic. Isolated positive squeeze tests are not a parameter for referral, it should only be performed if arthralgia is clinically suspected.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Clinical Tests for Assessing Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the accuracy of clinical tests that are used to diagnose greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) in clinical practice. DESIGN: Diagnostic test accuracy systematic review with meta-analysis. LITERATURE SEARCH: MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, AMED, and SPORTDiscus were searched using key words mapped to diagnostic test accuracy for GTPS. STUDY SELECTION CRITERIA: Studies with published or derivable diagnostic accuracy data were included. DATA SYNTHESIS: Risk of bias was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool, and certainty of evidence, via the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) framework. MetaDTA "R" random-effects models were used to summarize individual and pooled data including sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios, and pretest/posttest probabilities. RESULTS: From a database yield of 858 studies, 23 full texts were assessed. We included 6 studies for review, involving 15 tests and 272 participants (314 hips). Overall certainty of evidence ranged from very low to moderate. Meta-analysis of 6 tests revealed sequenced test clusters able to significantly shift pretest-posttest probability for or against a GTPS diagnosis. In people reporting lateral hip pain, a negative gluteal tendon (GT) palpation test followed by a negative resisted hip abduction test significantly reduced the posttest probability of GTPS from 59% to 14%. In those with a positive GT palpation test followed by a positive resisted hip abduction test, the posttest probability of GTPS significantly shifted from 59% to 96%. CONCLUSION: The value of magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosing GTPS is debated. We have identified a straightforward, clinically useful diagnostic test cluster to help confirm or refute the presence of GTPS in people reporting lateral hip pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2024;54(1):1-24. Epub 10 August 2023. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11890.

Pain, function and quality of life are impaired in adults undergoing periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) for hip dysplasia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Hip dysplasia is a common condition in active adults with hip pain that can lead to joint degeneration. Periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is a common surgical treatment for hip dysplasia. The effect of this surgery on pain, function and quality of life (QOL) has not been systematically analysed.

PURPOSE

In adults with hip dysplasia: (1) evaluate differences in pain, function and QOL in those undergoing PAO and healthy controls; (2) evaluate pre- to post-PAO changes in pain, function and QOL; (3) evaluate differences in pain, function and QOL in those with mild versus severe dysplasia, undergoing PAO; and (4) evaluate differences in pain, function and QOL in those having primary PAO versus those with previous hip arthroscopy.

METHODS

A comprehensive, reproducible search strategy was performed on 5 different databases. We included studies that assessed pain, function and QOL in adults undergoing PAO for hip dysplasia, using hip-specific patient reported outcomes measures.

RESULTS

From 5017 titles and abstracts screened, 62 studies were included. Meta-analysis showed PAO patients had worse outcomes pre- and post-PAO compared to healthy participants. Specifically, pain (standardised mean difference [SMD] 95% confidence interval [CI]): -4.05; -4.78 to -3.32), function (-2.81; -3.89 to -1.74), and QOL (-4.10; -4.43 to -3.77) were significantly poorer preoperatively.Meta-analysis found patients experienced improvements following PAO. Pain improved from pre-surgery to 1-year (standardised paired difference [SPD] 1.35; 95% CI, 1.02-1.67) and 2 years postoperatively (1.35; 1.16-1.54). For function, the activities of daily living scores at 1 year (1.22; 1.09-1.35) and 2 years (1.06; 0.9-1.22) and QOL at 1 year (1.36; 1.22-1.5) and 2 years (1.3; 1.1-1.5) all improved. No difference was found between patients undergoing PAO with mild versus severe dysplasia.

CONCLUSIONS

Before undergoing PAO surgery, adults with hip dysplasia have worse levels of pain, function and QOL compared to healthy participants. These levels improve following PAO, but do not reach the same level as their healthy participants.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO (CRD42020144748).

Ewing's sarcoma in a young man mimicking lateral elbow pain: A case report with 2 years follow-up

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Lateral elbow pain represents a common musculoskeletal disorder, mostly non-specific and benign. In rare cases, it can be the first symptom of a severe disease such as Ewing's sarcoma (ES). ES is the second most common primary malignant bone tumor in the young population, with a high probability of an unfavourable prognosis.

CASE PRESENTATION

This case report presents the history of a young man presenting to the physical therapist with a diagnosis of "epicondylitis" in the right elbow, which was later revealed to be an aggressive ES of the ulna. Findings raising clinical doubts were (a) constant pain even at night and not dependent on load, (b) significant loss of function, (c) patient's young age, and (d) a palpable mass in the elbow.

RESULTS

After diagnosis, the patient received medical (chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery) and a rehabilitation program. After treatment, the patient improved elbow function, decreased disability and returned to social participation, maintaining positive outcomes at the 2-year follow-up.

DISCUSSION

In summary, this case report emphasizes the importance of differential diagnosis and screening for referral of red flags in physical therapy. Moreover, it describes the rehabilitation of a patient with ES, enriching the scientific literature in the field.

Patient Perspectives on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Thumb, Hand, or Wrist Pain and Function: A Survey of 98 Patients

PURPOSE

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an established option to improve pain and function for many orthopedic conditions. Our purpose was to obtain patient perspectives regarding CBT for thumb, hand, or wrist pain and function.

METHODS

Between March and April 2022, we distributed an electronic survey via email to patients in our institution's health system with a diagnosis of arthritic or non-specific thumb, hand, or wrist pain. The survey included the opening statement "Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a non-medication option to help manage pain and improve function" and up to 13 questions pertaining to patients' experiences and perceptions regarding CBT. The survey was anonymous and did not collect protected health information. We used descriptive statistics for the findings.

RESULTS

We distributed the survey to 327 patients, yielding a 30% response rate (98/327). Of the respondents, 17 reported already using CBT to specifically help with pain/function. Of these, 15 felt it was helpful and agreed it could help others. Of the subset that used CBT for arthritis, all felt it was helpful. Of the 75 respondents with no CBT experience, 42 indicated "I've never heard of it," 28 responded "I never had it recommended as an option," and 16 marked "I don't know enough about it." Small subsets noted potential personal barriers to CBT implementation, such as cost, time involved, or perceived lack of potential efficacy for themselves.

CONCLUSIONS

A small proportion of patients from our institution with thumb, hand, or wrist pain are utilizing CBT, and the majority finds it helpful.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

While some patients are already substantially benefiting from CBT to improve their thumb, hand, or wrist pain or function, there is a notable opportunity for providers to increase awareness and recommendations for this option.

The unsolved problem of musculoskeletal hydatid disease: two case reports

BACKGROUND

Hydatidosis is a parasitic infection caused by Echinococcus granulosus and humans are usually an accidental intermediate host. Involvement of the musculoskeletal system is reported to occur in 0.5% to 4% of the cases.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present our experience with two cases of musculoskeletal hydatidosis in black African patients that required orthopaedic surgical intervention. A 51-year-old black African female presented with right hip hydatid disease and a 37-year-old black African female presented with the disease affecting the left shoulder. Both patients presented with joint pain and reduced range of motion. The patient with involvement of the shoulder had a background history of human immunodeficiency virus, this was not present with the other patient. Diagnostic work-up confirmed peri-articular hydatid disease and both patients were surgically managed with arthroplasty. Post-operative complications encountered include hardware loosening from bone lysis and hardware failure.

DISCUSSION

The medical literature describes a limited number of cases of peri-articular musculoskeletal hydatid disease. Patients are often subjected to many investigations, prolonged treatment periods and multiple surgeries. Concurrent use of medical and surgical treatment is advocated however, the choice of surgery is individualised.

CONCLUSION

Hydatid disease must always feature in the differential diagnosis of multiple lytic bone lesions and radical surgical intervention may be required from the outset.

Effects of Hip Pain Diagnostic Labels and Their Explanations on Beliefs About Hip Pain and How to Manage It: An Online Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES: To compare the effects of diagnostic labels and their explanations on people's beliefs about managing hip pain. DESIGN: Online randomized controlled trial involving 626 participants. METHODS: Participants aged ≥45 years with and without hip pain considered a hypothetical scenario (initial doctor consultation for hip pain). They were randomized to receive a diagnostic label and explanation of (1) hip osteoarthritis, (2) persistent hip pain, or (3) hip degeneration. Primary outcomes were the beliefs (1) exercise would damage the hip and (2) surgery is necessary at some stage (scales, 0 = definitely would not/unnecessary, 10 = definitely would/necessary). Secondary outcomes included beliefs about other treatments and care providers. RESULTS: Compared to hip degeneration, participants who were allocated to hip osteoarthritis and persistent hip pain believed exercise was less damaging (mean difference -1.3 [95% CI: -1.9, -0.7] and -1.8 [-2.3, -1.2], respectively) and surgery less necessary (-1.5 [-2.1, -1.0] and -2.2 [-2.7, -1.6], respectively). Compared to hip osteoarthritis, participants who were allocated to persistent hip pain believed surgery was less necessary (-0.7 [-1.2, -0.1]), but not that exercise was less damaging (-0.5 [-1.1, 0.1]). Compared to hip degeneration, participants who were allocated to hip osteoarthritis and persistent hip pain were less concerned about their hip and believed exercise and care from an exercise and sports physician, rheumatologist, or physiotherapist would be more helpful, and care from an orthopaedic surgeon less helpful. CONCLUSIONS: People who were allocated a diagnostic label and explanation of hip osteoarthritis or persistent hip pain believed exercise was less damaging and surgery less necessary for a hip problem than hip degeneration. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2023;53(11):673-684. Epub 5 October 2023. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11984.

Evaluation and Treatment of Knee Pain: A Review

Importance

Approximately 5% of all primary care visits in adults are related to knee pain. Osteoarthritis (OA), patellofemoral pain, and meniscal tears are among the most common causes of knee pain.

Observations

Knee OA, affecting an estimated 654 million people worldwide, is the most likely diagnosis of knee pain in patients aged 45 years or older who present with activity-related knee joint pain with no or less than 30 minutes of morning stiffness (95% sensitivity; 69% specificity). Patellofemoral pain typically affects people younger than 40 years who are physically active and has a lifetime prevalence of approximately 25%. The presence of anterior knee pain during a squat is approximately 91% sensitive and 50% specific for patellofemoral pain. Meniscal tears affect an estimated 12% of the adult population and can occur following acute trauma (eg, twisting injury) in people younger than 40 years. Alternatively, a meniscal tear may be a degenerative condition present in patients with knee OA who are aged 40 years or older. The McMurray test, consisting of concurrent knee rotation (internal or external to test lateral or medial meniscus, respectively) and extension (61% sensitivity; 84% specificity), and joint line tenderness (83% sensitivity; 83% specificity) assist diagnosis of meniscal tears. Radiographic imaging of all patients with possible knee OA is not recommended. First-line management of OA comprises exercise therapy, weight loss (if overweight), education, and self-management programs to empower patients to better manage their condition. Surgical referral for knee joint replacement can be considered for patients with end-stage OA (ie, no or minimal joint space with inability to cope with pain) after using all appropriate conservative options. For patellofemoral pain, hip and knee strengthening exercises in combination with foot orthoses or patellar taping are recommended, with no indication for surgery. Conservative management (exercise therapy for 4-6 weeks) is also appropriate for most meniscal tears. For severe traumatic (eg, bucket-handle) tears, consisting of displaced meniscal tissue, surgery is likely required. For degenerative meniscal tears, exercise therapy is first-line treatment; surgery is not indicated even in the presence of mechanical symptoms (eg, locking, catching).

Conclusions and Relevance

Knee OA, patellofemoral pain, and meniscal tears are common causes of knee pain, can be diagnosed clinically, and can be associated with significant disability. First-line treatment for each condition consists of conservative management, with a focus on exercise, education, and self-management.

Evaluation of the effects of arthrocentesis combined with occlusal stabilization splint on disc displacement without reduction-induced acute and closed lock. A prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Disc displacement without reduction (DDWoR) of the temporomandibular joint is associated with limited mouth opening and arthralgia. In the natural course of the disorder, there is a tendency to progress to degenerative joint diseases. First-line treatment aims to reduce pain and restore joint function. The current study aims to examine the efficacy of an occlusal stabilization splint applied simultaneously with arthrocentesis as first-line treatment in acute and chronic closed-locks.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present prospective clinical trial included 40 patients who were diagnosed with DDWoR induced chronic (Group 1, n = 23) and acute (Group 2, n = 17) closed-locks. All participants underwent single session arthrocentesis and were applied occlusal stabilization splints. Maximum mouth opening amounts (MMO), Visual analogue scale (VAS), and McGill pain questionnaire (MPQ) scores were evaluated at baseline, on the operation day, and on seven days after the intervention. The obtained data was analyzed with the Wilcoxon signed-rank, Mann-Whitney U, Fisher's exact, Spearman's correlation tests.

RESULTS

According to the baseline data, a significant increase was observed in the amount of MMO in postoperative measurements (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001). A statistically significant decrease in MPQ scores was observed in the postoperative period (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001). While a significant difference was observed between the postoperative VAS scores, the scores of Group 2 were lower (p = 0.018).

CONCLUSION

Although combined arthrocentesis and occlusal stabilization splint provided significant changes for acute and chronic closed-locks in line with first-line treatment goals, acute closed-lock with arthralgia responded better.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05671549.

The preliminary development and clinical verification of the positive index score scale of "Heart Arthralgia Syndrome"

BACKGROUND

In recent years, the age of onset for coronary heart disease (CHD) has become one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The medical treatments occasionally cause side effects; therefore, there is still an urgent need to develop new therapeutic modalities for CHD in clinical practice. "Heart Arthralgia Syndrome (HAS)" is a general term for CHD with arthralgia symptoms proposed by our team based on clinical experience. At present, there is little in-depth research on the treatment of HAS by TCM. Pick Complex Therapy (PCT) is an innovative and developed theory of collateral acupuncture therapy for HAS.

METHODS

We collected data from 276 patients who met the criteria for (coronary heart disease with numbness of neck, shoulder, waist, and leg). We selected 24 diagnostic criteria for HAS by means of multiple methods, including Cronbach's α coefficient, retest reliability, subjective evaluation, discrete trend, Pearson's rank correlation coefficient and factor analysis method. We thereafter evaluated the reliability, validity and responsiveness of the scale. In the clinical validation phase, we verified whether the preliminary developed positive index (PI) scale can guide clinical practice. Forty (40) patients with HAS were selected in the study. SPSS23.0 statistical software was used for statistical processing and analysis.

RESULTS

Assessment results of the initial PI scale for HAS: the average time to complete the scale was 7.47 ± 3.59 minutes. Cronbach's α coefficient for the initial table was 0.711, the retest reliability was 0.897, the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test result was 0.844, and the Bartlett test result was 2502.300. Following maximum variance rotation analysis, the cumulative variance contribution rate was determined to be 66.605%. In the clinical validation phase of the PI scale, we tested 40 patients before and after the PCT treatments. After 3 measurements, the correlation between the PI scale for HAS and the angina pectoris grading scoring method table decreased gradually. The last 2 measurement results of study indicated that there was a significant correlation between the PI scale and thrombin time, while physical and chemical examination showed no significant changes.

CONCLUSION

The PI scale for HAS can be widely used in the clinic as a preliminary evaluation tool for guiding PCT.

Intra-articular corticosteroids associated with increased risk of total hip arthroplasty at 5 years

BACKGROUND

Intra-articular corticosteroid injections are commonly administered for hip pain. However, guidelines are conflicting on their efficacy, particularly in patients without arthritis. This study assessed for an association of corticosteroid injections and the incidence of total hip arthroplasty at 5 years.

METHODS

Patients with a diagnosis of hip pain without femoroacetabular osteoarthritis who were administered an intra-articular corticosteroid injection of the hip within a 2-year period were identified from the Mariner PearlDiver database. Patient were matched to patients with a diagnosis of hip pain who did not receive an injection. 5-year incidence of total hip arthroplasty was compared between matched patients who received an intra-articular corticosteroid injection and those who did not.

RESULTS

2,540,154 patients diagnosed with hip pain without femoroacetabular arthritis were identified. 25,073 (0.9%) patients received a corticosteroid injection and were matched to an equal number of control patients. The incidence of total hip arthroplasty (THA) at 5-year-follow up was significantly higher for the corticosteroid cohort compared to controls (1.1% vs. 0.5%; p < 0.001). The incidence and risk of THA increased along with number of injections (1 injection: 0.8%, OR 1.37; 95% CI, 1.34-1.42; p < 0.001, 2 injections: 1.1%; OR 1.45; CI, 1.40-1.50; p < 0.001, ⩾3 injections: 1.5%; OR 1.48; CI, 1.40-1.56; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

There may be a dose-dependent association of corticosteroid injections and a greater risk of total hip arthroplasty at 5 years. These results along with the conflicting guidelines on the efficacy of intra-articular steroids for hip pain should prompt physicians to consider osteoarthritis progression that may occur in the setting of corticosteroid injections in non-arthritic hips.

Hip Pain and Movement Dysfunction Associated With Nonarthritic Hip Joint Pain - 2023 Revision Using the Evidence to Guide Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Practice

Nonarthritic hip joint pain is a collection of conditions involving intra-articular structures of the hip, including femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS), developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), hip instability, acetabular labral tears, osteochondral lesions, loose bodies, and ligamentum teres tears. Pain in the hip region can also involve non-musculoskeletal, lumbosacral spine, intra-articular, and extra-articular sources. Treatment for people with nonarthritic hip joint pain should focus on impairments and be evidence based, with assessments at baseline and at least one other follow-up point that includes discharge. Here we present, for clinicians, the most up-to-date information to guide their work to manage nonarthritic hip pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2023;53(9):1-3. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.0505.

Prevalence and correlates of the use of complementary and alternative medicines among older adults with joint pain

BACKGROUND

There is increasing use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) alone or as an adjuvant therapy to conventional medicines in osteoarthritis (OA) patients.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to describe the prevalence and correlates of the use of CAMs among community-dwelling older adults.

METHODS

Data from the Tasmania Older Adult Cohort Study (TASOAC, n = 1099) were used to describe the prevalence of CAM use. Correlates of CAM use were assessed by comparing CAM users and non-users. To further assess correlates of CAM use, participants with at least one joint with pain were classified into four categories: CAM-only, analgesics-only, co-therapy, and "neither CAMs nor analgesics" (NCNA).

RESULTS

In all, 385 (35.0%) of our participants reported use of CAMs, among which vitamins/minerals were used most (22.6%, n = 232). Compared with CAM non-users, CAM users were more likely to be female, were less likely to be overweight, were better educated, had more joints with OA, had fewer WOMAC scores, and did more steps per day. Among participants with any joint pain, the CAM-only group were less likely to be overweight, consumed more alcohol, had higher quality of life, had more steps per day, and had fewer pain-related symptoms compared with the analgesic-only group.

CONCLUSION

Complementary and alternative medicines were commonly used among Tasmanian older adults, with 35% of the population using CAMs either alone or in combination with conventional analgesics. CAM users were more likely to be female, be better educated, have more joints with OA, and had healthier lifestyles, including lower body mass index and higher number of steps per day.

[Ulnocarpal Wrist Pain - Tips for the Daily Practice]

INTRODUCTION

Ulnar wrist pain is a frequent symptom with many possible traumatic and non-traumatic causes. The complex anatomy and biomechanics of the wrist with the ulnocarpal complex including the triangular fibrocartilaginous complex (TFCC), the distal radio-ulnar joint (DRUJ) and the ulnar carpal bones make the differentiation between the possible causes difficult. A precise clinical investigation and appropriate imaging studies are essential for detecting the most important differential diagnoses, the first therapeutical steps and an early and appropriate referral to the hand surgeon.

Effectiveness and Safety of Intra-arterial Imipenem/Cilastatin Sodium Infusion for Patients with Hand Osteoarthritis-Related Interphalangeal Joint Pain

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of intra-arterial imipenem/cilastatin sodium (IPM/CS) infusion for painful interphalangeal joint osteoarthritis (OA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-eight patients with interphalangeal joint OA who underwent intra-arterial IPM/CS infusion were retrospectively evaluated. Intra-arterial infusions were performed via percutaneous wrist arterial access. The Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Functional Index for Hand Osteoarthritis (FIHOA), and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) scale scores were assessed at intervals of 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months. Clinical success was evaluated based on PGIC.

RESULTS

All patients were followed up for at least 6 months after treatment. Of them, 30 and 6 patients were followed up for 12 and 18 months, respectively. No severe or life-threatening adverse events were encountered. The mean NRS score was 6.0 ± 1.4 at baseline, which significantly decreased to 2.8 ± 1.4, 2.2 ± 1.9, and 2.4 ± 1.9 at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment, respectively (all P < .001). The mean NRS scores were 2.8 ± 1.7 and 2.9 ± 1.9 at 12 and 18 months, respectively, in the remaining patients. The mean FIHOA score significantly decreased from 9.8 ± 5.0 at the baseline to 4.1 ± 3.5 at 3 months (P < .001). The mean FIHOA score was 4.5 ± 3.3 at 12 months in the remaining 30 patients. The clinical success rates based on PGIC at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months were 62.1%, 77.6%, 70.7%, 63.4%, and 50.0%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Intra-arterial IPM/CS infusion is a potential treatment option for interphalangeal joint OA refractory to medical management.

Hip Pain in an Athlete

ABSTRACT

Hip pain is a common complaint in sports, and narrowing the differential diagnosis can be difficult. Many etiologies are secondary to overuse and respond well to nonsurgical treatment. The increased use of point-of-care ultrasound has helped provide timely and accurate diagnoses and some guided treatments. The hip is in close proximity to the abdomen and pelvis, and clinicians should be familiar with nonmusculoskeletal pain generators. This article is a comprehensive review of hip pain etiologies in athletes.

A Comparative Analysis of Chikungunya in Kidney Transplant Recipients Compared With the General Population: A Multicenter, Retrospective, Cohort Study From India

OBJECTIVES

Chikungunya is an arboviral illness, with patients presenting with fever, arthralgias, and myalgias. Outbreaks have occurred in tropical regions, and the virus is now endemic to many tropics, including South Asia, with India contributing a large part of the global burden. The presentation and long-term effects on transplant recipients are largely unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective analytical study, we compared chikungunya infection in 44 kidney transplant recipients from multiple centers in India and 34 patients from the general population. Data were collected from medical records and patient recall.

RESULTS

Differences in presentation were remarkable between the 2 groups, with significantly lower incidence of musculoskeletal symptoms on presentation in transplant recipients compared with the general population. The incidence of acute graft dysfunction was 17.08% in transplant recipients, with return to baseline at the end of 1 month. Acute symptomatology resolved in transplant recipients within 1 month, and insignificant chronic symptoms were reported after 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Chikungunya in kidney transplant recipients is markedly different from that of the general population, with significantly lower incidence of musculoskeletal symptoms such as arthralgias. The infection caused acute graft dysfunction, but no long-term sequelae were shown at the end of 1 year.

Effect of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization combined with blood flow restriction training on function, pain and strength of patients with patellofemoral joint pain

BACKGROUND

Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a prevalent sports injury that affects athletes both in their daily lives and during training. This condition causes pain in the area where the kneecap and thigh bone meet, and it can be quite debilitating. Whether an athlete is simply going about their day or pushing themselves to the limit during a workout, patellofemoral pain can be a significant hindrance.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of combining Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) treatment with blood flow restriction training on individuals with patellofemoral pain. Specifically, the study will assess improvements in pain levels, functional ability, strength, and joint mobility resulting from this treatment approach.

METHODS

Twenty-six patients diagnosed with patellofemoral pain were selected as observation subjects and randomly divided into two groups: the IASTM combined with blood flow restriction training treatment group (n = 13) and the IASTM treatment group alone (n = 13). The treatment period was 4 weeks. In this study, we conducted a comparison and analysis of the knee's visual analogue pain scale (VAS), Lysholm score, and a modified version of the Thomas test (MTT) at three different time points.In this subject paper, we compared and analyzed the VAS score of the knee, Lysholm score of the knee, and MTT at three different time points-before treatment, immediately after the first treatment, and after four weeks of treatment. Additionally, we recorded data using a maximum isometric muscle strength testing system for the lower extremity extensors four weeks before and after treatment.

RESULTS

In comparing the Lysholm scores within the groups, a significant difference was observed between the two groups following the initial treatment and after 4 weeks of treatment (p < 0.05). The scores increased, indicating a significant improvement in function. The VAS scores significantly differed after the first treatment and 4 weeks of treatment compared to before treatment (p < 0.05), indicating a significant improvement in pain. Additionally, after 4 weeks of treatment, the strength of the extensor muscle in the lower extremity significantly improved (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the strength test between the groups (p > 0.05). The MTT test revealed significant changes in the three joint angles before and after treatment (p > 0.05), suggesting an improvement in joint mobility. Overall, these results demonstrate the effectiveness of the treatment in improving pain and muscle strength in the lower extremity.

CONCLUSION

The combination of IASTM treatment and blood flow restriction has been shown to significantly reduce pain and improve periprosthetic soft tissue flexibility. Additionally, IASTM treatment alone was found to be more effective in improving knee pain and muscle flexibility, ultimately leading to increased knee strength in a pain-free state. In terms of the overall treatment outcome, it was found that the combined treatment was significantly more effective than the adjuvant soft tissue release treatment alone.

Arthralgia in female Masters weightlifters

BACKGROUND

Arthralgia or joint pain is a heterogeneous condition including organic and nonorganic joint pain. It is common in older populations, particularly in females. There is evidence that menopausal changes are associated with increased prevalence of arthralgia. While physical activities have been recommended to mitigate osteoarthritis (OA) and arthralgia, sport participation also carries risk factors due to excessive loading of some joints and possible injuries. The aim was to evaluate the association of training patterns, prior injuries, and severity of menopausal symptoms with arthralgia in female Masters weightlifters.

METHODS

Competitive female Masters weightlifters (n=868, 30-78 years) from 30 countries completed an online survey including joint pain for different anatomical sites, weightlifting training and performance, sport history, and menopausal symptoms. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the association of training patterns, prior sport participation, and menopausal symptom severity with arthralgia separately for shoulders, spine, hips, knees, ankles, elbows, and hands.

RESULTS

Arthralgia was most reported in knees (38.8%), shoulders (29.8%), hands/wrists (28.8%), and hips (24.9%). The prevalence of arthralgia was 51.5% in pre-menopausal women, 62.4% in women post natural menopause and 73.3% in women post medical or surgical menopause. Lifting heavier weights was associated with arthralgia in hips (OR=1.05, p=0.03), knees (OR=1.06, p=0.01), and hands/wrists (OR=1.05, p=0.04), but prior strength training was protective for arthralgia in the shoulders (OR=0.66, p=0.02). Prior injuries and psychological menopausal symptom severity were associated with an increased risk for arthralgia (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Arthralgia was common in competitive female weightlifters. Training frequency was not associated with arthralgia, but lifting heavier weights relative to age and body mass was. Prior injuries and menopausal symptoms were associated with arthralgia, but prior strength training was protective of arthralgia in the shoulders. Athletes, coaches and sports medicine professionals should be aware that prevalence of polyarthralgia increases in post-menopausal athletes.

DC/TMD Axis I diagnostic subtypes in TMD patients from Confucian heritage cultures: a stratified reporting framework

OBJECTIVES

This study proposed a conceptual framework for reporting Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) Axis I conditions and investigated the prevalence of TMD subtypes/categories in patients from Confucian heritage cultures. Variances in gender, age, and TMD chronicity between Chinese (CN) and Korean (KR) patients were also explored.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subjects were recruited from consecutive patients seeking care at two University-based centers in Beijing and Seoul. Eligible patients completed a demographic survey as well as the DC/TMD Symptom Questionnaire and were clinically examined according to the DC/TMD methodology. Axis I diagnoses were subsequently rendered with the DC/TMD algorithms and documented using the stratified reporting framework. Statistical evaluations were performed with chi-square, Mann-Whitney U tests, and logistic regression analysis (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Data of 2008 TMD patients (mean age 34.8 ± 16.2 years) were appraised. Substantial differences in female-to-male ratio (CN > KR), age (KR > CN), and TMD duration (KR > CN) were observed. Ranked frequencies of the most common Axis I diagnoses were: CN - disc displacements (69.7%) > arthralgia (39.9%) > degenerative joint disease (36.7%); KR - disc displacements (81.0%) > myalgia (60.2%) > arthralgia (56.1%). Concerning TMD categories, notable differences in the prevalence of intra-articular (CN 55.1% > KR 15.4%) and combined (KR 71.8% > CN 33.4%) TMDs were discerned.

CONCLUSIONS

Though culturally similar, the two countries require disparate TMD care planning/prioritization. While TMJ disorders in children/adolescents and young adults should be emphasized in China, the focus in Korea would be on TMD pain in young and middle-aged adults.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Besides culture, other variables including socioeconomic, environmental, and psychosocial factors can influence the clinical presentation of TMDs. Chinese and Korean TMD patients exhibited significantly more intra-articular and combined TMDs respectively.

To treat or not to treat? Current attitudes on treatment aimed at modifying the disease burden in clinically suspect arthralgia: a survey among participants of the TREAT EARLIER trial and healthcare professionals

OBJECTIVES

While awaiting therapies accomplishing rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-prevention in individuals at-risk, recent evidence supports that a 1-year methotrexate treatment may lead to sustained reduction in disease burden and subclinical joint inflammation in patients with clinically suspect arthralgia (CSA). We aimed to study the previously unexplored attitudes of CSA patients and rheumatologists on 1-year DMARD treatment in the arthralgia phase to reduce the disease burden, while not preventing RA.

METHODS

CSA patients who participated in the TREAT EARLIER trial, thus being expert by experience, were informed on the trial results. Thereafter they completed an anonymous questionnaire about their attitudes on treatment in the CSA phase. We used the same approach for Dutch healthcare professionals in rheumatology.

RESULTS

The majority of trial participants (85%) considered the effects of the 1-year treatment as found in the TREAT EARLIER trial, beneficial in the symptomatic at-risk stage. 79% would recommend a 1-year methotrexate course to others with comparable joint complaints. Two-thirds indicated RA prevention and improving disease burden to be equally important treatment goals in the CSA phase. Most healthcare professionals (88%) were inclined to prescribe 1-year treatment to CSA patients aimed at long-term improvement of symptoms and functioning, while not preventing RA development. 59% believed the profits of a 1-year methotrexate course to outweigh disadvantages, for example, side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

A considerable willingness exists among CSA patients and rheumatologists to start a 1-year treatment resulting in long-term improvement of symptoms and functioning, while not preventing RA. This emphasises the need for more research optimising treatment regimens and disease monitoring in individuals at-risk to facilitate such treatment decisions in the future, while avoiding an intervention, either limited or for a prolonged period, which may have harms that outweigh benefits.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

The Netherlands Trials Registry (NTR4853-trial-NL4599). EudraCT number: NL2014-004472-35.

Evaluation of lateral epicondylopathy, posterior interosseous nerve compression, and plica syndrome as co-existing causes of chronic tennis elbow

PURPOSE

A great number of patients that suffer from lateral epicondylitis, commonly called tennis elbow (TE), are not successfully treated, meaning, not getting adequate therapeutic effects and the main origin of the pain not being handled appropriately. The hypothesis of the present study is that the inefficiency of the treatment of the chronic TE may often be due to underdiagnosis of posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) entrapment or and plica syndrome, as the authors believe that those pathologies can often occur simultaneously.

METHODS

A prospective cross sectional study was conducted. A total of 31 patients met the required criteria.

RESULTS

Thirteen (40.7%) of the patients had more than one source of the lateral elbow pain. Five patients (15.6%) had all three examined pathologies. Six patients (18.8%) had TE and PIN syndrome. Two patients (6.3%) had TE and plica syndrome.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated concomitant potential sources of lateral elbow pain in patients diagnosed with chronic TE. Our analysis shows how important it is to systematically diagnose patients that present with lateral elbow pain. The clinical characteristics of the three most common causes of chronic lateral elbow pain, meaning, TE, PIN compression, and plicae syndrome were also analyzed. Having adequate knowledge about the clinical aspects of these pathologies can help with a more effective differentiation of the etiology of chronic lateral elbow pain, and with that, a more efficient and cost-effective treatment plan.

The role of intraarticular injections of hyaluronic acid in joint pain relief in hemophilic arthropathy

INTRODUCTION

Chronic pain in hemophilic patients is due to joint degeneration associated with hemophilic arthropathy. In addition to appropriate hematological treatment (primary prophylaxis), pharmacologic management and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation should be indicated. When such measures are not sufficient, intraarticular injections (IAIs) of hyaluronic acid (HyA) may be considered.

AREAS COVERED

In order to determine whether IAIs of HyA are effective in terms of pain relief in individuals with painful moderate hemophilic arthropathy, a PubMed and Cochrane Library search using 'hemophilia hyaluronic acid' as keywords was performed on 18 July 2023.

EXPERT OPINION

In a study of individuals with hemophilic arthropathy (elbows, knees and ankles), 91% of them improved pain after a mean follow-up of 6 years. In another study of individuals with knee arthropathy, after a 7-year follow-up 82% reported an improvement in pain. As for hemophilic ankle arthropathy, in a study 67% of patients showed relief of joint pain at 6-month follow-up. Although the literature on the subject is very heterogeneous and difficult to interpret, it appears that IAIs of HyA can relieve the joint pain of painful moderate hemophilic arthropathy for months. Moreover, the IAIs can be repeated every 6-12 months.

Hip Pain and Movement Dysfunction Associated With Nonarthritic Hip Joint Pain: A Revision

The Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (AOPT), formerly the Orthopaedic Section of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), has an ongoing effort to create evidence-based practice guidelines for orthopaedic physical therapy management of patients with musculoskeletal impairments described in the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF). This is an update to the 2014 Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) for Hip Pain and Movement Dysfunction Associated with Nonarthritic Hip Joint Pain. The goals of the revision were to provide a concise summary of the contemporary evidence since publication of the original guideline and to develop new recommendations or revise previously published recommendations to support evidence-based practice. This current CPG covers pathoanatomical features, clinical course, prognosis, diagnosis, examination, and physical therapy interventions in the management of nonarthritic hip joint pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2023;53(7):CPG1-CPG70. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.0302.

Assessments of early patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis features after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Persistent anterior knee pain and subsequent patellofemoral joint (PFJ) osteoarthritis (OA) are common symptoms after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Quadriceps weakness and atrophy is also common after ACLR. This can be contributed by arthrogenic muscle inhibition and disuse, caused by joint swelling, pain, and inflammation after surgery. With quadriceps atrophy and weakness are associated with PFJ pain, this can cause further disuse exacerbating muscle atrophy. Herein, this study aims to identify early changes in musculoskeletal, functional and quality of health parameters for knee OA after 5 years of ACLR.

METHODS

Patients treated with arthroscopically assisted single-bundle ACLR using hamstrings graft for more than 5 years were identified and recruited from our clinic registry. Those with persistent anterior knee pain were invited back for our follow-up study. For all participants, basic clinical demography and standard knee X-ray were taken. Likewise, clinical history, symptomatology, and physical examination were performed to confirm isolated PFJ pain. Outcome measures including leg quadriceps quality using ultrasound, functional performance using pressure mat and pain using self-reported questionnaires (KOOS, Kujala and IKDC) were assessed. Interobserver reproducibility was assessed by two reviewers.

RESULTS

A total of 19 patients with unilateral injury who had undergone ACLR 5-years ago with persistent anterior knee pain participated in this present study. Toward the muscle quality, thinner vastus medialis and more stiffness in vastus lateralis were found in post-ACLR knees (p < 0.05). Functionally, patients with more anterior knee pain tended to shift more of their body weight towards the non-injured limb with increasing knee flexion. In accordance, rectus femoris muscle stiffness in the ACLR knee was significantly correlated with pain (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In this study, it was found that patients having higher degree of anterior knee pain were associated with higher vastus medialis muscle stiffness and thinner vastus lateralis muscle thickness. Similarly, patients with more anterior knee pain tended to shift more of their body weight towards the non-injured limb leading to an abnormal PFJ loading. Taken together, this current study helped to indicate that persistent quadriceps muscle weakness is potential contributing factor to the early development of PFJ pain.

Outcomes of IncobotulinumtoxinA Injection on Myalgia and Arthralgia in Patients Undergoing Temporomandibular Joint Arthroscopy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Several studies have considered Botulinum Neurotoxin Type A injections effective in treating temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) symptoms. A double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial investigated the benefit of complementary incobotulinumtoxinA (inco-BoNT/A) injections in the masticatory muscles of patients submitted to bilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopy.

METHODS

Fifteen patients with TMD and an indication for bilateral TMJ arthroscopy were randomized into inco-BoNT/A (Xeomin, 100 U) or placebo groups (saline solution). Injections were carried out five days before TMJ arthroscopy. The primary outcome variable was a Visual Analogue Scale for TMJ arthralgia, and secondary outcomes were the myalgia degree, maximum mouth opening, and joint clicks. All outcome variables were assessed preoperatively (T0) and postoperatively (T1-week 5; T2-6-month follow-up).

RESULTS

At T1, the outcomes in the inco-BoNT/A group were improved, but not significantly more than in the placebo group. At T2, significant improvements in the TMJ arthralgia and myalgia scores were observed in the inco-BoNT/A group compared to the placebo. A higher number of postoperative reinterventions with further TMJ treatments were observed in the placebo group compared to inco-BoNT/A (63% vs. 14%).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients submitted to TMJ arthroscopy, statistically significant long-term differences were observed between the placebo and inco-BoNT/A groups.

Synovial plica of the elbow - detailed measurements and how to implicate its relevance in clinical practice

PURPOSE

The synovial plica of the elbow is a fold of synovial tissue, which is said to be a remnant of the embryonic septa of normal articular development and is located around the radiocapitellar joint. The objective of the present study was to provide morphometric properties of the synovial plica of the elbow and its relation to surrounding structures in asymptomatic patients.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted to establish the morphometric characteristics of the synovial plica of the elbow. The results of 216 consecutive patients, who for different reasons during the five year period of time underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of an elbow, were analyzed.

RESULTS

Plica was found in a total of 161 of 216 elbows (74.5%). The mean width of the plica was set to be 3.00 mm (SD: 1.39). The mean length of the plica was established at 2.91 mm (SD: 1.13). An analysis of sexual dimorphism was also included. Potential correlations were analyzed for each of the categories and age.

CONCLUSIONS

The synovial plica of the elbow is a clinically relevant anatomical structure. Analyzing the morphometric parameters of the synovial plica is necessary to properly evaluate synovial plica syndrome, which can commonly be confused with other sources of lateral elbow pain such as tennis elbow, oppression of the radial and/or posterior interosseous nerve, or snapping of the triceps tendon. The authors suggest that the thickness of the plica may not be the golden diagnostic feature as there are no statistically significant differences in this parameter between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. A precise and accurate diagnosis of synovial fold syndrome and/or differentiation from other sources of lateral elbow pain must be performed, as the surgical treatment, even if performed properly, will be unsuccessful because of a misdiagnosed source of pain.

Pain Sensitization as a Potential Mediator of the Relationship Between Sleep Disturbance and Subsequent Pain in Rheumatoid Arthritis

OBJECTIVE

Many patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) experience sleep disturbances, commonly attributed to joint pain. Sleep disturbances could also influence pain. One mechanism may be through dysregulated pain processing, manifested by enhanced pain sensitivity. The present study was undertaken to examine the role of pain sensitization, measured by quantitative sensory testing (QST), as a mediator in the pathway of sleep disturbance leading to subsequent pain.

METHODS

We used longitudinal data from 221 patients with active RA who were followed for 12 weeks after initiating a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug. Baseline QST included pressure pain thresholds at articular (wrists, knees) and nonarticular (trapezius, thumbnails) sites, temporal summation (TS) at the wrist and forearm, and conditioned pain modulation (CPM). Baseline sleep disturbance and subsequent pain intensity were assessed using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). We evaluated correlations between sleep disturbance, QSTs, and subsequent pain intensity. Mediation analyses separately assessed each QST as a mediator, adjusting for baseline confounding factors.

RESULTS

Sleep disturbance was correlated with all QST measures except wrist TS and CPM. Sleep disturbance significantly predicted subsequent pain (coefficient for a meaningful increase of 5 units in sleep disturbance = 0.32 (95% confidence interval 0.11, 0.50) in multiple regression. QST mediated 10-19% of this effect.

CONCLUSION

Pain sensitization may be one mechanism through which sleep disturbance contributes to pain. The small magnitude of association indicates that unmeasured pathways may contribute to this relationship. Intervention studies are needed to establish causality and determine whether improving sleep can improve pain in patients with RA.

Hand function is already reduced before RA development and reflects subclinical tenosynovitis

BACKGROUND

Clinically suspect arthralgia (CSA) is characterised by arthralgia of small joints and considered a risk stage for development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, it remains unknown if the function of the hands is already affected and what mechanisms underlie impaired hand-function in CSA.

METHODS

We studied various measures of hand function in two CSA populations. CSA patients in the TREAT EARLIER-trial (n=236) were evaluated at baseline for: grip strength on a dynamometer (GS), patient-reported difficulties in the grip domain of the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) questionnaire and incomplete fist closure at physical examination. Findings were validated in an independent CSA cohort (n=600) where hand function was measured as: GS evaluated by squeezing the examiner's fingers, grip domain of the HAQ questionnaire and fist closure. Contrast-enhanced MRI of the hands measured synovitis, tenosynovitis and bone marrow oedema (summed as subclinical inflammation) in both cohorts.

RESULTS

GS (on a dynamometer) was reduced in 75% compared with reference values in healthy controls, 60% reported grip difficulties and 13% had incomplete fist closure. Reduced GS was associated with subclinical inflammation (-0.38 kg/point inflammation, 95% CI -0.68 to -0.08). Studying separate MRI features, GS reduction was independently associated with tenosynovitis, decreasing with -2.63 kg (95% CI -2.26 to -0.33)/point tenosynovitis (range observed tenosynovitis scores: 0-20). Similar relations with tenosynovitis were seen for patient-reported grip difficulties (OR 1.12/point, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.42) and incomplete fist closure (OR 1.36/point, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.79). In the validation cohort, 36% had decreased examiner-assessed GS, 51% reported grip difficulties and 14% incomplete fist closure: all were associated with tenosynovitis. Decreased dynamometer-measured GS was most sensitive for detecting tenosynovitis (75%), while incomplete fist closure was most specific (88%-90%).

CONCLUSION

Hand function is already often affected before RA development. These limitations are related to subclinical inflammation and tenosynovitis in particular.

Polyarticular Joint Pain in Adults: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis

Polyarticular joint pain involves five or more joints and can be inflammatory or noninflammatory. Two of the most common causes of chronic polyarthritis are osteoarthritis, especially in older patients, and rheumatoid arthritis, which affects at least 0.25% of adults worldwide. The initial evaluation should include a detailed history of the patient's symptoms, with a focus on inflammation, location of pain, duration of symptoms, the presence of systemic symptoms, and any exposures to pathogens that could cause arthritis. Redness, warmth, or swelling in a joint is suggestive of synovitis and joint inflammation. A systematic approach to the physical examination that assesses for a pattern of joint involvement and presence of synovitis can help narrow the differential diagnosis. Laboratory tests, joint aspiration, and imaging studies should be used to confirm a suspected diagnosis. Rheumatoid factor and cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody tests are helpful when there is concern for rheumatoid arthritis. Although magnetic resonance imaging is highly sensitive in identifying erosive bony changes and inflammation, conventional radiography remains the standard for the initial imaging evaluation of rheumatoid arthritis. Point-of-care musculoskeletal ultrasonography can also be a useful tool to detect findings that support a diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis.

Update on contribution of hip labral tears to hip pain: A narrative review

Hip labral tears are found in 22-55% of individuals with hip pain, but labral tears without cysts are usually not responsible for hip pain, which originates mostly from other structures than the torn labrum, like osteochondral, but also tendinous injuries (rectus femoris, gluteus minimus, iliopsoas) or capsulo-ligamentous tears (iliofemoral ligaments, ligament teres). Those lesions are mainly the consequences of underlying unrecognized functional acetabular dysplasia, and/or femoroacetabular impingements. Although the early repair of labral tears in young sportsmen induces a marked and lasting relief, and might delay the onset of osteoarthritis, the microinstability fostered by labral damages seems less important than underlying dysplasias/impingements. This narrative review details recent findings on: (i) the various mechanisms of pain associated with labral tears; (ii) few evidence for hip microinstability induced by isolated labral tears; (iii) how to best detect labral tears, both clinically (including through IROP test) and on imaging (MRI, MRA, computed tomography arthrography, ultrasound). Some authors suggested to use pull-out tests during surgery, but pulling of hips do not seem to increase much diagnostic performances of ultrasounds. Ultrasound-guided intra-articular and peri-articular injections may tell how often hip pain is exclusively induced by peri-capsular injuries secondary to the acetabular dysplasia/femoro-acetabular impingements already responsible for labral tears. Further works could tell whether labral repair, tendinous debridement, plication of capsule, and/or focal denervation, may induce lasting reliefs of pain induced by the chronic contraction of surrounding muscles (rectus femoris, gluteus minimus, psoas), whose deep aponeuroses mix with the superficial fibres of the thick hip capsule.

Development and validation of a clinical rule for the diagnosis of chikungunya fever in a dengue-endemic area

Rio de Janeiro is a dengue-endemic city that experienced Zika and chikungunya epidemics between 2015 and 2019. Differential diagnosis is crucial for indicating adequate treatment and assessing prognosis and risk of death. This study aims to derive and validate a clinical rule for diagnosing chikungunya based on 3,214 suspected cases consecutively treated at primary and secondary health units of the sentinel surveillance system (up to 7 days from onset of symptoms) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Of the total sample, 624 were chikungunya, 88 Zika, 51 dengue, and 2,451 were negative for all these arboviruses according to real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The derived rule included fever (1 point), exanthema (1 point), myalgia (2 points), arthralgia or arthritis (2 points), and joint edema (2 points), providing an AUC (area under the receiver operator curve) = 0.695 (95% CI: 0.662-0.725). Scores of 4 points or more (validation sample) showed 74.3% sensitivity (69.0% - 79.2%) and 51.5% specificity (48.8% - 54.3%). Adding more symptoms improved the specificity at the expense of a lower sensitivity compared to definitions proposed by government agencies based on fever alone (European Center for Disease Control) or in combination with arthralgia (World Health Organization) or arthritis (Pan American Health Organization, Brazilian Ministry of Health). The proposed clinical rule offers a rapid, low-cost, easy-to-apply strategy to differentiate chikungunya fever from other arbovirus infections during epidemics.

Brucellosis in older person: a case report from Qatar

BACKGROUND

Brucellosis is a multisystem disease with a broad spectrum of non-specific symptoms that generally occur within three weeks but sometimes up to 3 months after inoculation. Human brucellosis is quite uncommon in Elderly in Qatar.

CASE REPORT

This report describes a case of Brucellosis in acute geriatric unit under Rumailah Hospital in Qatar. The patient was an 81-year-old Qatari Gentle man, functionally able to walk with minimal assistance and had mild cognitive impairment who presented with high-grade fever with chills, anorexia, low back pain and arthralgia for 10 days. The above complaints occurred often for 1 month and had fever intermittently. Lab investigations revealed as high CRP 117 mg/l, low Hb 9.1 g/dl and mild elevation in ALP (151 µ/l) with normal leukocyte and platelet count. His blood culture positive for Brucella melitensis with high brucella Antibody titter 1:1280. The diagnosis made as Brucellosis.

DISCUSSION

The clinical manifestations of Brucellosis are fever, night sweating, chills, arthralgia and loss of appetite. It seems pyrexia of unknown origin without other symptoms is most common presentation of Brucellosis in old age. The confirmation of Brucellosis made with serological tests, with significantly high titer, in the presence or absence of blood culture. Brucella antibody titers (≥1:160) are suggestive of active infection. Anemia and raised CRP and liver enzymes were the most prominent laboratory abnormalities in our patients. Previous study from Qatar reported that 41.7% had a history of raw milk consumption and 12.5% had a history of animal contact. The objectives of Brucellosis treatment include the prevention of complications and relapse.

CONCLUSION

Our case presented with classical symptoms and received appropriate treatment on time. However, atypical clinical presentation and lack of specific history taking can delay diagnosis and treatment; it leads to serious clinical disease progression with increased complications. From this case study, we would contribute to optimal assessment and to keep differential diagnosis for unknown cause of fever can be Brucellosis in geriatric population.

40-year-old woman • fever • rash • arthralgia • Dx?

► Fever ► rash ►arthralgia.

Review of Opioid Sparing Interventional Pain Management Options and Techniques for Radiofrequency Ablations for Sacroiliac Joint Pain

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The goal of this clinical review was to provide an update about the existing treatment options and associated evidence for various radiofrequency ablation techniques for sacroiliac joint pain. An electronic literature search on radiofrequency for the treatment of sacroiliac joint pain was conducted using PubMed, NCBI and Google Scholar. The following search keywords were used: radiofrequency ablation (cooled, pulsed, conventional, bipolar, intra-articular), sacroiliac joint and sacroiliac pain. The search was limited to human subjects, English language and articles with available full text. The bibliographic sections of all manuscripts were further searched for additional relevant citations. The full text of the relevant articles was reviewed by all the authors.

RECENT FINDINGS

Our study showed that radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective treatment option that can be utilized to manage sacroiliac joint pain. It offers accessibility to the primary care physician, reduces office visits with "pain" as the primary complaint and provides the added benefit of acting as a non-opioid sparing means of analgesia.

The British menopause society consensus statement on the management of oestrogen deficiency symptoms, arthralgia and menopause diagnosis in women with treated for early breast cancer

This guidance document by the British Menopause Society provides an overview of the management of women experiencing oestrogen deficiency symptoms and arthralgia following a breast cancer diagnosis. It is now recommended breast cancer patients are referred to health care professionals with an expertise in menopause for management of such symptoms, which in turn often involves liaison with patients' breast cancer teams.¹ However, as many women initially present to primary health care professionals for advice, this statement is aimed to support the latter in such consultations by providing information about symptom aetiology, current management strategies and controversies and identifying useful practice points. This is an updated version of the 2018 consensus statement prepared by Miss Jo Marsden Consultant Breast Surgeon, King's College Hospital, London, (retired), Mr Mike Marsh, Consultant Gynae-endocrinologist, King's College Hospital, London, Dr Anne Rigg, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London.

[A man with polyarthralgia]

A 46-year old Ghanaian man presented with immobilizing arthralgias in all joints except the forefoot, with a periarticular swelling most pronounced around the wrists and ankles. He had erythema nodosum and hilar lymphadenopathy on chest radiograph. We diagnosed Löfgren syndrome. The polyarthralgia recovered quickly with prednisone treatment.

The value of MRI for detecting subclinical joint inflammation in clinically suspect arthralgia

In the last decade, much research has focused on the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the symptomatic phase preceding the onset of clinical arthritis. Observational studies on imaging have revealed that subclinical joint inflammation in patients with arthralgia at risk for RA precedes and predicts the onset of clinically apparent arthritis. Moreover, the results of two placebo-controlled randomised proof-of-concept trials in patients with arthralgia and MRI-detected subclinical inflammation studies will soon be available. The initial results are encouraging and suggest a beneficial effect of DMARD treatment on subclinical inflammation. Since this may increase the necessity to detect subclinical joint inflammation in persons with arthralgia that are at risk for RA, we will here review what has been learnt about subclinical inflammation in at-risk individuals by means of imaging. We will focus on MRI as this method has the best sensitivity and reproducibility. We evaluate the prognostic value of MRI-detected subclinical inflammation and assess the lessons learnt from MRIs about the tissues that are inflamed early on and are associated with the clinical phenotype in arthralgia at risk for RA, for example, subclinical tenosynovitis underlying pain and impaired hand function. Finally, because long scan times and the need for intravenous-contrast agent contribute to high costs and limited feasibility of current MRI protocols, we discuss progress that is being made in the field of MRI and that can result in a future-proof way of imaging that is useful for assessment of joint inflammation on a large scale, also in a society with social distancing due to COVID-19 restrictions.