Search

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the Anterior Knee Pain Scale in a cohort of adolescents being treated conservatively for patellofemoral pain using Rasch analysis. Design: This is a psychometric study. Setting: Physical therapy clinics of a large pediatric hospital in Columbus, Ohio (United States) Subjects: A total of 646 adolescent patients with patellofemoral pain (76% female, 14.6 ± 1.6 years old). Intervention: Not applicable. Main Measure: The Anterior Knee Pain Scale. Results: The median Anterior Knee Pain Scale score was 73 (interquartile range 64–81), with scores ranging from 7 to 100 on the 100-point scale. The Rasch person reliability for the Anterior Knee Pain Scale was 0.74 and the Cronbach’s alpha was 0.75, representing an acceptable person reliability. Principal component analysis revealed a ratio of 5.2:1 demonstrating acceptable unidimensionality of the Anterior Knee Pain Scale. A significant misfit was observed in the item “Abnormal Painful Kneecap Movements” (Outfit Means Square 2.74, Infit Means Square 1.41). Ordering of item responses was unsatisfactory as only five of the 13 items demonstrated appropriate distinction between each of the responses. There was no differential item functioning for sex or age for all items of the Anterior Knee Pain Scale, based upon the criterion of ⩾ 0.5 logit difference. Conclusion: The Anterior Knee Pain Scale does not meet interval-level measurement criteria and should be considered ordinal level data.

Subacromial pain syndrome (SPS) accounts for as much as 44% of shoulder pain encountered by physical therapists. Thoracic spine thrust manipulation (TSTM) is effective in the short term for improving pain and function in individuals with SPS, but its mechanisms remain elusive. Furthermore, it is unknown whether individuals with SPS respond differently based on the TSTM technique received.To compare the immediate effects of a supine TSTM, seated TSTM, and sham manipulation on the primary outcomes of self-reported pain, function, and satisfaction and secondary biomechanical impairments examined in individuals with SPS.Participants in this randomized clinical trial were randomized to receive a seated TSTM (n = 20), supine TSTM (n = 20), or sham manipulation (n = 20). The primary outcomes of self-reported pain, function, and satisfaction were measured via the Penn Shoulder Score. Secondary outcomes were changes in scapular upward rotation and posterior tilt; peak force generated in tests for the middle trapezius, lower trapezius, and serratus anterior; and pectoralis minor muscle length. Impairment measures were immediately reassessed, and the Penn Shoulder Score was reassessed after 48 hours.There were no significant between-group differences in immediate or short-term follow-up outcomes.Two TSTM techniques resulted in no differences in pain, satisfaction, and function when compared to a sham manipulation. Thoracic spine thrust manipulation did not have an immediate effect on the scapular impairments examined.Therapy, level 1.

Background Clinical tests of foot posture and mobility are not strongly related to the dynamic kinematics of the foot during gait. These measures may be more directly related to foot and ankle kinetics. The supination resistance test (SRT) is a clinical test that may more directly measure forces acting on the weightbearing foot to provide clinicians with insight about the loading of foot structures. Research Question What is the relationship between the SRT in relaxed calcaneal stance and in single-leg-stance and the kinetics and kinematics of the foot and ankle during gait? Methods 10 healthy adults between the ages of 18 and 65 were recruited to participate in this study. Three-dimensional motion analysis was performed using the Oxford Foot Model during gait. The results of the SRT were compared with peak midfoot and ankle joint moments, power generation and absorption, joint angles, and peak angular velocities and accelerations. Correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the strength of relationships between these variables and the SRT. Results The SRT demonstrated significant relationships with several variables. In relaxed calcaneal stance, the SRT was inversely related to maximum midfoot pronation moments (r = −0.51), maximum midfoot plantarflexion moments (rho = −0.71), and peak midfoot power generation (r = −0.61). In single-leg-stance, the SRT was significantly related to maximum midfoot plantarflexion moments (rho = −0.55) and peak midfoot power generation (r = −0.47). Significance The SRT is significantly associated to several kinetic variables that quantify midfoot loading during gait. Interventions that decrease supination resistance may have the potential to increase midfoot power generation.

Introduction: Asymmetrical sensorimotor function after stroke creates unique challenges for bipedal tasks such as walking or perturbation-induced reactive stepping. Preference for initiating steps with the less-involved (preferred) leg after a perturbation has been reported with limited information on the stepping response of the more-involved (non-preferred) leg. Understanding the capacity of both legs to respond to a perturbation would enhance the design of future treatment approaches. This pilot study investigated the difference in perturbation-induced stepping between legs in stroke participant and non-impaired controls. We hypothesized that stepping performance will be different between groups as well as between legs for post-stroke participants. Methods: Thirty-six participants (20 persons post-stroke, 16 age matched controls) were given an anterior perturbation from three stance positions: symmetrical (SS), preferred asymmetrical (PAS-70% body weight on the preferred leg), and non-preferred asymmetrical (N-PAS-70% body weight on the non-preferred leg). Kinematic and kinetic data were collected to measure anticipatory postural adjustment (APA), characteristics of the first step (onset, length, height, duration), number of steps, and velocity of the body at heel strike. Group differences were tested using the Mann-Whitney U-test and differences between legs tested using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test with an alpha level of 0.05. Results: Stepping with the more-involved leg increased from 11.5% of trials in SS and N-PAS up to 46% in PAS stance position for participants post-stroke. Post-stroke participants had an earlier APA and always took more steps than controls to regain balance. However, differences between post-stroke and control participants were mainly found when stance position was modified. Compare to controls, steps with the preferred leg (N-PAS) were earlier and shorter (in time and length), whereas steps with the non-preferred leg (PAS) were also shorter but took longer. For post-stroke participants, step duration was longer and utilized more steps when stepping with the more-involved leg compared to the less-involved leg. Conclusions: Stepping with the more-involved leg can be facilitated by unweighting the leg. The differences between groups, and legs in post-stroke participants illustrate the simultaneous bipedal role (support and stepping) both legs have in reactive stepping and should be considered for reactive balance training.

Background Individuals with subacromial pain present with a variety of contributing impairments related to the movement problem. The scapular assistance test (SAT) and scapula reposition test (SRT) are proposed to identify shoulder pain related to abnormal scapular movement or position. It remains unknown if scapular movement related impairments are present in those with positive tests. Objectives To determine if scapular motion related impairments differ based on the result of the SAT or SRT in individuals with subacromial pain syndrome. Design Cross-sectional Method Sixty individuals with subacromial pain syndrome were included. Prior to obtaining results of the SAT and SRT, a single examiner measured scapular upward rotation and posterior tilt active and passive motion, pectoralis minor length, and strength of the middle trapezius, lower trapezius, and serratus anterior. Dynamic scapular motion was qualitatively assessed with the Scapular Dyskinesis Test. The Mann-Whitney U test assessed for differences based on the outcome of the SAT and SRT. Results There was a significant difference (P = .023) in pectoralis minor length for the SAT. Participants with a positive SAT had decreased muscle length compared to those who tested negative. There were no significant differences in scapular motion or strength based on the result of either the SAT or SRT. Conclusions A positive SAT was associated with greater pectoralis minor length impairment, but not muscle strength or mobility. The SRT did not identify greater impairments in any of the scapular movement related impairments assessed. Individuals may vary in contributing impairments related to SAT or SRT results.

Study Design Electronic cross-sectional survey. Background The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) evidence-based practice guideline for low back pain (LBP) elaborated on strategies to manage nonspecific LBP in routine physical therapy practice. This guideline described LBP associated with mobility deficit, leg pain and a directional preference, coordination impairment (lumbar instability), and fear-avoidance behavior. Objectives To assess American physical therapists' adherence to the clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for LBP of the Orthopaedic Section of the APTA, and to compare adherence among physical therapists with different qualifications. Methods The investigators contacted 1861 members of the Orthopaedic Section of the APTA and 1000 members of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT). Participants made treatment choices for 4 clinical vignettes: LBP with mobility deficit, coordination impairment, leg pain (directional preference), or fear-avoidance behavior. The investigator used logistic regression analyses to compare guideline adherence among physical therapists with the following qualifications: orthopaedic clinical specialists (PTOs), Fellows of the AAOMPT (PTFs), PTOs and PTFs (PTFOs), and physical therapists without clinical specialization but with a musculoskeletal interest (PTMSs). Results A total of 410 physical therapists completed all sections of the survey (142 PTOs, 110 PTFOs, 74 PTFs, and 84 PTMSs). Adherence to the APTA's CPG was highest for LBP associated with leg pain and a directional preference (72.2%), followed by LBP with mobility deficit (57.1%), LBP with coordination impairment (46.1%), and fear-avoidance behavior (29.5%). Physical therapists who were PTFOs adhered better to the CPG for LBP than did PTMSs for all 4 patient vignettes. Orthopaedic clinical specialists adhered better to the CPG for LBP for the vignettes of mobility deficit and of LBP with fear-avoidance behavior than did PTMSs. Conclusion Physical therapists who were PTFOs and PTOs adhered better to the CPG than did PTMSs. Based on our preliminary results, further education on the CPG for LBP management is needed, particularly for managing LBP with coordination impairment and with fear-avoidance behavior. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2017;47(5):347-358. Epub 3 Mar 2017. doi:10.2519/jospt.2017.6561.

No study has described low back pain (LBP) treatment choices among physical therapists (PTs) in the United States (US) in the new millennium. Intervention for LBP in the new millennium is largely based on evidence-based practice (EBP) recommendations. The purpose of this study was twofold: (a) to describe PTs' preferences for treating acute and subacute non-specific LBP in Florida and to compare these preferences to EBP guideline recommendations and (b) to compare outpatient musculoskeletal therapist (MSPT) choices for management of acute and subacute LBP to non-outpatient musculoskeletal therapist (NMSPT) choices.The data were collected with an electronic survey. Study participants selected treatment choices for acute and subacute LBP clinical vignettes.A total of 327 PTs participated in the study, of which 128 worked in outpatient musculoskeletal settings. The most common treatment choices for acute and subacute LBP were home exercise program, exercise in the clinic, back care education, joint mobilization, ice/heat, and interferential current. The EBP adherence rate for acute LBP was 30% for MSPTs and 15% for NMSPTs. Thirty-seven percent (37%) of MSPTs and 30% of NMSPTs adhered to EBP guidelines for subacute LBP.The EBP adherence rate for management of acute and subacute LBP was low. Spinal manipulation was underutilized for management of acute LBP, and passive therapeutic procedures were overutilized for subacute LBP. Physical Therapy schools and professional associations should reemphasize the benefits of spinal manipulation to manage non-specific acute LBP and active interventional procedures to manage subacute LBP.

Background:The disability of the shoulder, arm, and hand (DASH) and shortened version QuickDASH instruments are self-report questionnaires designed to measure physical function and symptoms in patients with upper-extremity disorders. An understanding of the clinimetric properties of these instruments may guide clinicians and researchers in their use.Objective:To systematically review the clinimetric properties of the DASH and QuickDASH for use among individuals with shoulder disorders.Methods:A search was conducted using Medline, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, AMED, and PEDro from 1996 to July 2013 using the following keywords independently and in combination: disabilities of the shoulder, arm, and hand; DASH, QuickDASH, and shoulder. Articles retained were inclusive of at least one clinimetric property of the DASH or QuickDASH as the main focus of the study. Articles retained for review after meeting inclusion criteria were then cross referenced.Results:Eighteen articles were ultimately retained for the re...

The purpose of this paper is to review the literature pertaining to subacromial impingement syndrome and lateral epicondylalgia (LE) in tennis players. The mechanisms of joint and muscular imbalances that lead to functional impingement of the shoulder joint may impair the stabilization and power function of the shoulder resulting in overcompensation of the wrist extensors during the tennis swing. This may contribute to microtrauma at the soft tissue structures at the lateral epicondyle thus causing symptoms of LE. Recent interest in the regional interdependence model as well as case studies published in the literature suggests that the relationship of proximal or distal joints should not be overlooked. Compensatory strategies at the distal upper extremity due to changes at the shoulder may overload smaller muscles in the forearm which cannot safely handle the extra stress, especially under repetitive conditions. Conditions of the shoulder and elbow that were previously considered to be independent...

To assess the effects of virtual reality using the NintendoTM Wii Fit on balance, gait, and quality of life in ambulatory individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI).There is a need for continued research to support effective treatment techniques in individuals with iSCI to maximize each individual's potential functional performance.Five males with a mean age of 58.6 years who had an iSCI and were greater than one-year post injury.An interrupted time series design with three pre-tests over three weeks, a post-test within one week of the intervention, and a four-week follow up. Outcome measures: gait speed, timed up and go (TUG), forward functional reach test (FFRT) and lateral functional reach test (LFRT), RAND SF-36. Intervention consisted of one-hour sessions with varied games using the Nintendo Wii Fit twice per week for seven weeks. Survey data was also collected at post-test. Results There were statistically significant changes found in gait speed and functional reach. The changes were also maintained at the four-week follow up post-test. Survey reports suggested improvements in balance, endurance, and mobility with daily tasks at home.All subjects who participated in training with the NintendoTM Wii Fit demonstrated statistically significant improvements in gait speed and functional reach after seven weeks of training. Given the potential positive impact that the NintendoTM Wii Fit has on functional reach and gait speed in patients with iSCI, physical therapists may want to incorporate these activities as part of a rehabilitation program.

Descriptive, cross-sectional.To compare static strength characteristics of the upper extremity musculature in female recreational tennis players with lateral epicondylalgia to those of nonsymptomatic tennis players and a control group of women who did not play tennis.There is a paucity of research describing the relationship between lateral epicondylalgia and strength characteristics of the upper extremity musculature, despite the functional relationship between the shoulder, elbow, and wrist.Sixty-three women were recruited into 3 groups (n = 21 per group): symptomatic tennis players (STP) with lateral epicondylalgia, nonsymptomatic tennis players, and controls. Data collection was performed during a single session, during which the strength of selected muscle groups of the dominant upper extremity was measured using a combination of force transducers. Strength ratios of selected muscle groups were then calculated.The STP group reported median pain level of 3/10 on a numeric pain rating scale and a symptom duration of 16 weeks. The STP group had weaker lower trapezius strength (mean difference, -9.0 N; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -13.5, -4.4) and wrist extensor strength (-12.7 N; 95% CI: -24.4, -1.1), and a higher shoulder internal/external rotation strength ratio (0.19; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.35) and upper/lower trapezius strength ratio (1.32; 95% CI: 0.41, 2.23), compared to those of the nonsymptomatic group. Compared to the control group, the STP group demonstrated a significantly higher shoulder internal/external rotation strength ratio (0.21; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.38) and wrist flexion/extension strength ratio (0.14; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.27).In this group of recreational female tennis players, significant differences in strength and strength ratio characteristics were identified. Although the design of the study precludes establishing a cause-and-effect relationship, the results suggest further study and treatment of the muscle groups of interest.