Search

We present a case of acute lower-limb arterial thrombosis following intra-articular steroid injection into the knee of a previously fit and active 41-year-old man. Symptoms of acute limb ischemia developed within 24 hours of treatment. Objective assessment with ultrasound arterial duplex and CT angiogram of the lower limb confirmed acute thrombosis of the popliteal artery in the treated leg. Although there is documented evidence of the association between steroid therapy and venous thromboembolic phenomena, there are no cases of arterial thrombosis in the literature. The temporal series of events that we report strongly suggest an association between the corticosteroid injection and the acute thrombotic event, the mechanism of which remains unclear. The patient underwent successful revascularization. It is important to document and disseminate this seemingly rare complication of a commonly associated procedure to increase awareness, invoke caution, and invite others to share similar cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Of the strategies considered to limit the discomfort of corticosteroid injection, one is to inject without lidocaine to reduce the total volume and avoid acidity. In a Bayesian trial, adults receiving corticosteroid injections were randomized to receive 0.5 mL of triamcinolone with or without 0.5 mL of lidocaine. Serial analysis was performed until a 95% probability of presence or absence of a 1.0-point difference in pain intensity on the 0–10 Numerical Rating Scale was reached. Injections with lidocaine were associated with a median of 2.4-point lower pain intensity during injection with a 95% probability of at least a 1-point reduction. The 95% probability was confirmed in 90% of the repeated analysis (36/40). Lidocaine is associated with lower immediate pain intensity during corticosteroid injection for hand and wrist conditions. Level of evidence: I [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The best treatment yielding clinical benefits was still equivocal and controversial for the treatment of recalcitrant plantar fasciitis (PF). This study aimed to propose a novel combination strategy of ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and corticosteroid injection (CI) for recalcitrant PF, and to compare its therapeutic effects with CI alone and continued conservative management. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients with recalcitrant PF who underwent combined strategy (RFA + CI), CI alone, and continue conservative treatment at our institution between October 2021 and February 2023. The technical pearls were described elaborately. A comparison of demographic data and clinical outcomes, including visual analog scale (VAS), Ankle–Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS-AHS), and plantar fascia thickness, were conducted among the three groups. Results: Seventy-one eligible patients were enrolled in this study, with 17 in the combined strategy group, 25 in the CI group, and 29 in the continued conservative treatment group. Both the combined strategy group and the CI group showed significant improvements in VAS scores, AOFAS-AHS scores, and significant reductions in plantar fascia thickness during the 12-month follow-up period compared to those preoperatively (P < 0.05). The combined strategy group achieved comparable immediate pain relief to the CI group after the intervention ([25.7 ± 15.7] vs. [20.6 ± 17.6], P = 0.850). However, the combined strategy group demonstrated superior improvement in symptom and function compared to the CI group at the 3-month (VAS: [21.9 ± 13.5] vs. [39.6 ± 20.4]; AOFAS-AHS: [77.9 ± 12.4] vs. [60.5 ± 17.4], P < 0.05) and 12-month follow-up (VAS: [15.7 ± 12.0] vs. [56.8 ± 17.5]; AOFAS-AHS: [84.5 ± 10.7] vs. [53.8 ± 12.4], P < 0.05). Obvious adverse effects or complications were not identified in either group, while two cases (11.8%) in the combined strategy group and five cases (20.0%) in the CI group experienced unsatisfactory symptom remission. Conclusions: We introduced and detailed a novel combination strategy involving ultrasound-guided percutaneous RFA and CI for treating recalcitrant PF. The strategy is both effective and safe in alleviating pain and enhancing function throughout the entire treatment course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exercise therapy (ET) is the main and initial treatment modality for treating subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS). The isolated or combined use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) applications in treating SIS is increasing and promising. A comparison was made on the effectiveness of ET alone and in combination with PRP on pain, functionality, and quality of life (QoL) in patients with SIS. Purposes/Hypothesis: The purposes of this study were to (1) investigate the possible positive effects of PRP injections combined with ET in treating SIS on pain, functionality, and QoL and (2) propose an alternative treatment protocol. It was hypothesized that the group receiving PRP applications in addition to ET would have a better QoL due to less pain and higher functionality 6 months after treatment. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Volunteer patients diagnosed with SIS were included based on history and physical examination findings. All participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging to confirm the diagnosis and exclude possible accompanying pathologies. The patients were randomly divided into 2 groups. The first group underwent ET at home for 8 weeks (ET group), and the second group received the same ET program and an additional 2 PRP injections, at the beginning of the study and the end of the fourth week (PRP group). Patients were evaluated initially and 6 months after the treatment using the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain score, Constant-Murley Score (CMS), and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test determined the conformity of the data to a normal distribution, chi-square analysis was used to compare categorical variables between groups, and the Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare continuous and intergroup variables. Intragroup changes before and after treatment were evaluated with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. P <.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 67 patients were initially enrolled; 5 were excluded and 6 were lost to follow-up (1 because of a COVID diagnosis). Thus, 56 patients (56 shoulders) were included for analysis. There were 28 patients in the ET group and 28 patients in the PRP group. There were no statistical differences between groups regarding participant characteristics and clinical evaluations before treatment. A statistically significant improvement was observed in pain (VAS subgroups), functionality (CMS subgroups), and QoL (SF-36 subgroups) evaluations of patients in both the ET and the PRP groups compared with before the treatment and 6 months after treatment (P <.05). At the 6-month posttreatment evaluation, the PRP group was statistically significantly superior to isolated ET in terms of VAS rest (P =.001) and night (P =.004) scores. This superiority was also in favor of the PRP group in flexion strength (P =.001), abduction strength (P =.046), and abduction degree (P =.041) measurements. There was no significant difference between ET and PRP groups regarding VAS activity, CMS, and SF-36 scores (P >.05) at 6 months. Conclusion: Our study showed that both isolated ET and additional PRP application to ET are effective methods in SIS treatment regarding pain, function, and QoL. Combining ET with PRP was superior in reducing pain and improving abduction degree and strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The prevalence of knee osteoarthritis (KOA), a progressive degenerative disease, is gradually increasing, and it is a progressive degenerative disease. In patients with mild-to-moderate KOA, intra-articular hyaluronic acid (IA-HA) has been shown to be an effective non-operative treatment option that can provide significant pain relief and symptom improvement by increasing intra-articular viscoelasticity. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of IA-HA injections in delaying total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and the safety of IA-HA according to IA-HA type and combination with intra-articular corticosteroid (IA-CS) using a large health insurance claim database. Methods For this retrospective cohort study, the study population included patients aged ≥ 50 years with a first diagnosis of KOA between 2009 and 2014, who underwent TKA by 2020, using the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service claim database in Republic of Korea. IA-HA injections were categorized as single or multiple injection regimen agents. Cox proportional hazard models estimated hazard ratios (HR) for TKA risk, adjusted for covariates. Logistic regression assessed the occurrence of adverse events after IA-HA administration. Results In all, 36,983 patients were included. Patients who received IA-HA injections had a significantly longer time to TKA compared to those who did not (mean delay of approximately 1 year). The IA-HA group had a significantly lower risk of TKA (HR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.60–0.62) than non-IA-HA group after adjusting for covariates, which included age, sex, medical history, number of hospital beds, and CS injection. Single injection IA-HA regimen agents showed the longest time to TKA and lowest risk (HR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.53–0.59). TKA risk decreased with the number of IA-HA cycles. Adverse events occurred in 6.7% of IA-HA cases without CS, with very low incidence of infection. Multiple injection regimen agents (multiple injection regimen 7.0% vs. single injection regimen 3.6%) and concurrent IA-CS use (concurrent IA-CS use 13.9% vs. IA-HA only 6.7%) were associated with higher infection risk. Conclusion IA-HA injections were associated with a significant delay in TKA among patients with KOA. Single-injection regimen agents had the lowest TKA risk. Infection risk increased with multiple injections and concurrent IA-CS use. These findings could suggest the use of IA-HA as an effective non-operative intervention option for managing KOA and delaying TKA. Careful selection of IA-HA type and consideration of concurrent IA-CS use could play a role in delaying the time to TKA and reducing complications.

Abstract Introduction The best treatment yielding clinical benefits was still equivocal and controversial for the treatment of recalcitrant plantar fasciitis (PF). This study aimed to propose a novel combination strategy of ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and corticosteroid injection (CI) for recalcitrant PF, and to compare its therapeutic effects with CI alone and continued conservative management. Methods We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients with recalcitrant PF who underwent combined strategy (RFA + CI), CI alone, and continue conservative treatment at our institution between October 2021 and February 2023. The technical pearls were described elaborately. A comparison of demographic data and clinical outcomes, including visual analog scale (VAS), Ankle–Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS-AHS), and plantar fascia thickness, were conducted among the three groups. Results Seventy-one eligible patients were enrolled in this study, with 17 in the combined strategy group, 25 in the CI group, and 29 in the continued conservative treatment group. Both the combined strategy group and the CI group showed significant improvements in VAS scores, AOFAS-AHS scores, and significant reductions in plantar fascia thickness during the 12-month follow-up period compared to those preoperatively (P

Background: The prevalence of knee osteoarthritis (KOA), a progressive degenerative disease, is gradually increasing, and it is a progressive degenerative disease. In patients with mild-to-moderate KOA, intra-articular hyaluronic acid (IA-HA) has been shown to be an effective non-operative treatment option that can provide significant pain relief and symptom improvement by increasing intra-articular viscoelasticity. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of IA-HA injections in delaying total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and the safety of IA-HA according to IA-HA type and combination with intra-articular corticosteroid (IA-CS) using a large health insurance claim database. Methods: For this retrospective cohort study, the study population included patients aged ≥ 50 years with a first diagnosis of KOA between 2009 and 2014, who underwent TKA by 2020, using the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service claim database in Republic of Korea. IA-HA injections were categorized as single or multiple injection regimen agents. Cox proportional hazard models estimated hazard ratios (HR) for TKA risk, adjusted for covariates. Logistic regression assessed the occurrence of adverse events after IA-HA administration. Results: In all, 36,983 patients were included. Patients who received IA-HA injections had a significantly longer time to TKA compared to those who did not (mean delay of approximately 1 year). The IA-HA group had a significantly lower risk of TKA (HR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.60–0.62) than non-IA-HA group after adjusting for covariates, which included age, sex, medical history, number of hospital beds, and CS injection. Single injection IA-HA regimen agents showed the longest time to TKA and lowest risk (HR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.53–0.59). TKA risk decreased with the number of IA-HA cycles. Adverse events occurred in 6.7% of IA-HA cases without CS, with very low incidence of infection. Multiple injection regimen agents (multiple injection regimen 7.0% vs. single injection regimen 3.6%) and concurrent IA-CS use (concurrent IA-CS use 13.9% vs. IA-HA only 6.7%) were associated with higher infection risk. Conclusion: IA-HA injections were associated with a significant delay in TKA among patients with KOA. Single-injection regimen agents had the lowest TKA risk. Infection risk increased with multiple injections and concurrent IA-CS use. These findings could suggest the use of IA-HA as an effective non-operative intervention option for managing KOA and delaying TKA. Careful selection of IA-HA type and consideration of concurrent IA-CS use could play a role in delaying the time to TKA and reducing complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anatomical variations of the first extensor compartment can affect de Quervain tendinopathy outcomes. Our study aimed to identify the anatomical prognostic indicators of symptom recurrence following a corticosteroid (CS) injection and to assess the efficacy of CS injections. Methods: Fifty consecutive patients received a single CS injection for de Quervain tendinopathy. Ultrasound imaging was used to assess anatomical factors of the first extensor tendon compartment of the wrist. The primary outcome was recurrence after six weeks and six months and the identification of the anatomical prognostic indicators of the recurrence. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain were evaluated as secondary outcomes. Results: Fifteen patients (30%) experienced symptom recurrence within six weeks. The intracompartmental septum and the number of tendon slips were associated with higher recurrence rates (adjusted odds ratio for the septum: 18.39, p = 0.045; adjusted odds ratio for each additional tendon slip: 24.68, p < 0.01). The mean DASH score improved from 74.1 ± 5 to 19.3 ± 25.3, and the mean VAS for pain from 8.5 ± 0.8 to 2 ± 2.7 (p < 0.01 for both scores). Five patients experienced minor adverse events with spontaneous improvement. Conclusions: CS injections are a viable treatment for de Quervain tendinopathy. Anatomical variations can predict treatment success. Counseling patients based on these factors can help guide treatment decisions, including surgical options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treating central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) is challenging due to high recurrence rates and variable therapy responses. This study examines the efficacy of various treatments in reducing CGCG recurrence. A literature review explored outcomes of surgical excision, curettage, intralesional corticosteroid injection, and adjuvant therapy, considering factors like lesion location, size, and histological features. Aggressive surgical techniques such as en bloc resection were found to potentially lower recurrence rates compared to conservative approaches. However, treatment should be tailored to individual patient needs. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and improve treatment strategies. A concise literature review was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar, focusing on papers published from 1986 to 2024. Search terms included "central giant cell granuloma", "recurrence", "treatment modalities", and "surgical excision". Studies reporting recurrence rates and treatment outcomes for CGCG were analyzed. Twenty-nine studies were reviewed, including six studies on surgical excision and curettage, eight studies on intralesional corticosteroid injections, six studies on calcitonin therapy, five studies on interferon-alpha therapy, and four studies on the therapy with denosumab. Analysis indicated that aggressive surgical treatments like en bloc resection were associated with lower recurrence rates compared to conservative methods. Predictors of recurrence included lesion size (>3 cm), location (mandible), and aggressive histopathological features. Aggressive surgical excision combined with nonsurgical methods may lower recurrence rates, while conservative techniques remain viable in some cases. Further prospective research is needed to validate these findings and enhance CGCG treatment options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Trigger finger, also referred to as trigger finger syndrome, is a condition caused by inflammation of the flexor tendons of the fingers and digital pulleys, resulting in pain and restricted movement. This issue affects numerous individuals, particularly the elderly and those who perform repetitive hand motions. Aim The aim of this study is to explore and compare the available treatment options for trigger finger, including rest, splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, steroid injections, and surgical interventions. Both conservative and surgical approaches have their advantages and limitations, and their effectiveness varies depending on the individual patient’s response. State of Knowledge Medical literature describes a variety of treatment methods, ranging from pharmacological approaches and physical therapy to steroid injections and, in more complex cases, surgical interventions. Conservative treatment, often the initial approach, aims to alleviate symptoms and can be effective in the early stages of the condition. Surgery, on the other hand, is considered when conservative treatment fails or in more advanced cases. Summary The choice of treatment for trigger finger should be tailored to the individual needs of the patient and the severity of the condition. Conservative therapy is effective in the early stages but does not always provide long-lasting relief. Surgery, although more invasive, is typically effective in advanced cases and often leads to a quicker restoration of full finger function.

Ultrasound guidance is valuable for performing precise joint interventions. Joint interventions may be requested for therapeutic and diagnostic pain injections, joint aspiration in the setting of suspected infection, or contrast injection for arthrography. In practice, interventions of the shoulder girdle, elbow, and hand/wrist joints may be performed without any imaging guidance. However, imaging guidance results in more accurate interventions and better patient outcomes than those performed by palpation alone. When compared to other modalities used for imaging guidance, ultrasound has many potential advantages. Radiologists should be prepared to perform ultrasound-guided upper extremity joint interventions utilizing recommended techniques to optimize clinical practice and patient outcomes. KEY POINTS: 1. Ultrasound-guided injections of the glenohumeral, acromioclavicular, sternoclavicular, elbow, and hand/wrist joints have higher accuracy than injections performed without imaging guidance. 2. Ultrasound-guided aspirations of upper extremity joints have advantages to fluoroscopic-guided aspirations because of the potential to identify effusions, soft tissue abscess, or bursitis. 3. Ultrasound-guided contrast injection prior to MR arthrography is as accurate as fluoroscopic-guided injection for upper extremity joints.

Steroid injections are a well-known first-line treatment for glenohumeral osteoarthritis; however, many patients eventually require definitive management with surgery. Recent literature has called into question the safety of steroid injections before shoulder surgery due to increased infections and revisions. Conclusive data regarding the relationship between preoperative injection and postoperative outcomes is lacking. This study aimed to determine the impact of ipsilateral injections on clinical outcomes following shoulder arthroplasty (SA). A retrospective study was performed on patients who underwent SA by a single fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon from 2017 to 2021. Patients were divided into two cohorts based on preoperative corticosteroid injection: (1) injection group (IG) and (2) no injection (control group (CG)). The IG was further stratified based on number of injections (1 vs. ≥2 injections) and timing of injections relative to surgery (<3 months, 3-12 months, and >12 months). Patient-reported pain and satisfaction, simple shoulder test, shoulder pain and disability index, visual analog scale for pain, University of California-Los Angeles score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Constant-Murley score, range of motion, complications, and reoperations were collected preoperatively and at final follow-up. Comparisons were made between groups and the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and substantial clinical benefit (SCB) were calculated for each score. 421 patients (IG = 98 patients, CG = 323 patients) were included, with mean follow-up of 22 months. The IG had more females (69.1% vs. 48.9%; P <.001) and older age (75 vs. 70; P <.001). There was significantly greater preoperative range of motion in the IG for forward elevation (80° vs. 70°; P =.025) and abduction (70° vs. 60°; P =.004). At final follow-up, all groups had a high percentage (mean 80.26%) of patients exceeding both MCID and SCB for all measures. More patients in the IG exceeded MCID and SCB for visual analog scale for pain (P =.009 and P =.007, respectively), and MCID for American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (P =.046) compared to the CG. The group with ≥2 injections reported worse shoulder pain and disability index scores (P =.024). Complication and reoperation rates were comparable between groups. Our study indicates that a single ipsilateral shoulder injection did not worsen postoperative outcomes or complication rates following SA. However, patients who received two or more injections had inferior patient-reported outcomes. Surgeons can continue to use injections as a viable first-line management option before shoulder arthroplasty for reliable pain relief without concerns for increased complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For nonsurgical musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries in athletes, image-guided percutaneous intervention may aid in recovery and decrease return to play (RTP) time. These interventions fall into two major categories: to reduce inflammation (and therefore alleviate pain) or to promote healing. This review describes the risks and benefits of the various percutaneous interventions in MSK athletic injury and surveys the literature regarding the implication of these interventions on RTP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Osteoarthritis affects over 5.4 million people in the United States. A common treatment is to perform intra-articular corticosteroid injections. However, the ideal steroid dose is unknown. This study aimed to pilot a corticosteroid injection protocol for primary glenohumeral OA. Methods: We conducted a double blinded randomized feasibility pilot study. Patients with primary osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint were recruited and randomized to receive 20 ​mg, 40 ​mg, or 80 ​mg of triamcinolone. The primary outcome was the feasibility of the protocol and change in the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) 6 months following injection. Results: 300 patients were screened for participation with 78 meeting inclusion criteria. 19 subjects completed the study. The most common reason for not participating was concern they would receive a smaller dose than previous injections. There was a 26% dropout rate, with 2 patients undergoing a total shoulder arthroplasty. There was no clinically significant difference (p ​= ​0.090) between the groups at 6-months for the SPADI although all treatment groups showed a reduction of SPADI from baseline at 6 months. There was one adverse event in the 20 ​mg group, with a patient experiencing facial flushing after the injection. Conclusion: We were successful in developing a feasible protocol. In the future excluding those who have received previous injections would be helpful for a higher enrollment rate. This patient concern highlights the need to complete clinical trials to guide medical decisions surrounding corticosteroid administration. NCT03586687.

ObjectiveIntra-articular corticosteroid injections (IACI) have been shown to be effective at improving arthritis across juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) categories. The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) recommends IACI use as primary and adjunctive therapy for JIA patients. However, there remains minimal data describing actual IACI use in North America. The objective of this study was to describe and to evaluate IACI use in JIA, utilizing the Pediatric Rheumatology Care and Outcomes Improvement Network (PR-COIN) registry.MethodsStudy participants from 13 sites were enrolled in the PR-COIN registry from 2011 to 2015. Demographic and clinical variables were summarized and Chi-squared and t-tests were used to evaluate differences between participants who did or did not receive IACI. Multiple logistic regression models were used to evaluate characteristics associated with IACI treatment.ResultsOur study included 3,241 participants, the majority of whom were white (85%), female (71%) and had oligoarticular JIA (39%). IACI was administered at least once in 23% of participants, the majority of whom had oligoarticular disease (52.5%), but overall use in oligoarticular participants was low at 30.8%. IACI use varied significantly between treatment centers and use was associated with oligoarticular disease, ANA positivity, and use of other systemic medications.ConclusionThis study demonstrates that participants with JIA enrolled in the PR-COIN registry between 2011 and 2015 with persistent oligoarticular disease, ANA positivity, and use of other systemic medications were more likely to receive IACI. However, IACI use was lower than expected for oligoarticular participants.

Objective: The immunosuppressive effects of corticosteroid (CS) injections have come under more scrutiny during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. The aim of the study was to explore any relationship between joint/epidural CS injection and SARS‐CoV‐2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positivity. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients 18 years or over who received at least one joint or epidural CS injection by physiatrists in a tertiary care center between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021. This cohort of patients was then compared to a control group who did not receive any CS injection during this time period. Results: A total of 766 patients were identified in the CS injection group and 1546 patients in the control group. Overall, 12.27% of patients turned SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR positive in the CS injection group, which was similar to 11.90% in the control group (p = 0.797). But 3‐month SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR positivity rate showed a statistically significant higher rate among the CS injection group (3.30% in the CS injection group vs. 2.10% in the control group; p = 0.027). In multivariate regression analysis, after adjusting both groups for Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), there was statistically significant higher SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR positivity rate in the CS injection group (p = 0.024). However, after adjusting both groups for age and total number of comorbidities, there was no difference between the groups in regard to SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR positivity rate (p = 0.081). In the subgroup analysis of only COVID‐19 vaccinated patients, there was an increased 3‐month SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR positivity rate among patients with severe comorbidities in the CS injection group (p = 0.036). Conclusion: The study was not conclusive on the effect of joint or epidural CS injection on SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR positivity rate, although adjusted analysis suggests higher 3‐month SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR positivity rate after CS injection in patients with severe comorbidities with significant disease burden when compared to controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal disease in adults over the age of 65. The first line of treatment typically consists of nonsurgical modalities prior to consideration for definitive treatment with total shoulder arthroplasty. Within this systematic review, we aim to assess the value of conservative management of glenohumeral osteoarthritis by evaluating the quality of available research and the efficacy of nonoperative treatment on patient-reported pain scores and functional outcome measures. A systematic review was conducted in literature published between 2000 and 2022. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed, and the electronic databases, PubMed, EBSCO Host, Medline, and Google Scholar were searched. Studies included in analysis consisted of patients receiving nonoperative management of glenohumeral joint arthritis without concomitant additional shoulder pathologies with a measured intervention and reported patient outcome measure. Two blinded reviewers screened and evaluated the data quality using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies tool. Nineteen studies were included consisting of 1879 patients with a median follow-up of 6 months. Eighteen studies included intra-articular injections including hyaluronic acid, corticosteroid, bone marrow aspirate, leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma, and autologous-conditioned serum injections. Each study reported symptomatic improvement following injection. Hyaluronic acid was the most commonly used (13 of 18 studies) agent with multiple studies demonstrating temporary improvement in pain and function. Four studies reported the outcomes of noninjectable modalities including physical therapy, bracing, and radiofrequency ablation. Two studies demonstrate that injections combined with physical therapy can lead to greater improvement in Constant score and range over motion for a greater period of time. Conservative treatment modalities can be effective in lowering pain scores and improving functional outcome scores in patients with glenohumeral osteoarthritis. The effect of each individual modality may be most effective when combined with other treatments. However, these benefits appear to be short-term. Additional studies are necessary to further determine the long-term efficacy and establish guidelines for the mainstay of first-line therapy in the management of glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Previous studies have shown that intra-articular hip injections prior to hip arthroscopy (HA) can be a helpful diagnostic tool. However, local anesthetic and corticosteroid injections can be chondrotoxic and corticosteroid injections have been shown to increase the risk of infection during subsequent surgical intervention. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether preoperative injections adversely affect outcomes of HA using a national database. Materials and methods: The TriNetX database was retrospectively queried. Patients undergoing HA for femoroacetabular impingement with at least 1 year of claims runout were included in the analysis. Patients were grouped by whether they had a hip injection within 1 year prior to HA. The rates of repeat HA, total hip arthroplasty (THA), infection, osteonecrosis, and new onset hip OA at 1- and 5-years postoperatively were compared between groups. Statistical significance was assessed at α = 0.05. Results: 6511 HA patients with previous injection and 1178 HA patients without previous injection were included. Patients with a previous injection were overall younger (32.3 vs. 34.7 years, p < 0.001), more likely to be female (69 vs. 48%, p < 0.001) and had a higher BMI (26.3 vs. 25.7 kg/m2, p = 0.043). At 1 and 5-years postoperatively, patients with any injection were 1.43 (p < 0.001) and 1.89 (p < 0.001) times more likely to undergo repeat HA, respectively. At 1 and 5-years postoperatively, patients who underwent a corticosteroid injection were 2.29 (p < 0.001) and 1.89 (p < 0.001) times more likely to undergo repeat HA than patients with local anesthetic injection only and 1.56 (p < 0.001) and 2.08 (p < 0.001) times more likely to undergo repeat HA than patients with no injection. Conclusions: Intraarticular hip injections prior to hip arthroscopy, particularly corticosteroid injections, are associated with increased risk of repeat hip arthroscopy at 1 and 5 years. Additional studies are needed to elucidate this risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aims of the study are to assess the incidence of systemic adverse effects and complications of ultrasound-guided and fluoroscopy-guided glucocorticoid injections and to identify associated risk factors. Design: This retrospective cohort study compared participants who received a glucocorticoid injection at the outpatient clinic and participants who had an appointment but did not receive a glucocorticoid injection. Participants were called to verify whether they had experienced any of the predetermined systemic adverse effects and complications. Multiple binary logistic regression was used to identify systemic adverse effect and complication risk factors. Results: There were 1010 participants in the glucocorticoid injection group and 328 in the nonglucocorticoid injection group. There was no statistically significant difference in the occurrence of systemic infection and decompensated heart failure between the two groups. More participants in the glucocorticoid injection group developed abnormal uterine bleeding and erectile dysfunction, but the differences did not reach statistical significance. Female participants were 1.9 times more likely to develop systemic adverse effects ( P < 0.001). Younger age ( P < 0.001), diabetes ( P = 0.012), and higher glucocorticoid injection doses ( P = 0.024) were also associated with an increased risk of developing systemic adverse effects. Conclusions: Identified risk factors for developing glucocorticoid injection systemic adverse effects were younger age, female sex, diabetes, tobacco use, and high glucocorticoid injection doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treating central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) is challenging due to high recurrence rates and variable therapy responses. This study examines the efficacy of various treatments in reducing CGCG recurrence. A literature review explored outcomes of surgical excision, curettage, intralesional corticosteroid injection, and adjuvant therapy, considering factors like lesion location, size, and histological features. Aggressive surgical techniques such as en bloc resection were found to potentially lower recurrence rates compared to conservative approaches. However, treatment should be tailored to individual patient needs. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and improve treatment strategies. A concise literature review was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar, focusing on papers published from 1986 to 2024. Search terms included “central giant cell granuloma”, “recurrence”, “treatment modalities”, and “surgical excision”. Studies reporting recurrence rates and treatment outcomes for CGCG were analyzed. Twenty-nine studies were reviewed, including six studies on surgical excision and curettage, eight studies on intralesional corticosteroid injections, six studies on calcitonin therapy, five studies on interferon-alpha therapy, and four studies on the therapy with denosumab. Analysis indicated that aggressive surgical treatments like en bloc resection were associated with lower recurrence rates compared to conservative methods. Predictors of recurrence included lesion size (>3 cm), location (mandible), and aggressive histopathological features. Aggressive surgical excision combined with nonsurgical methods may lower recurrence rates, while conservative techniques remain viable in some cases. Further prospective research is needed to validate these findings and enhance CGCG treatment options.

Background Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated with corticosteroid injections (CIs) and surgery. In this systematic review, the influence of previous CI on different postoperative outcomes after carpal tunnel release is evaluated.

Purpose: To compare the short and medium-term effects of physiotherapy plus corticosteroid injection (combined) with physiotherapy alone on pain intensity, disability, Quality of Life (QoL), and treatment effectiveness in patients with Subacromial Pain Syndrome (SAPS). Methods: In this double-blind, parallel Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), 50 patients with SAPS were randomly assigned into combined (N=25, a single injection 3-6 days before physiotherapy) and physiotherapy alone group (N=25). Pain, disability, QoL, and treatment-effectiveness were measured at preintervention, post-intervention, and 3 and 6-month follow-up with Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Shortened Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Quick-DASH), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) (primary outcome measure), Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC), and Global Rating of Change (GRC) respectively. A 2×4 (group×time) mixed model analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied for analysis. Results: The ANOVA revealed statistically significant group-in-time interaction for all outcome measures (p-value < 0.05). The independent t-test showed more effectiveness in the combined group at mediumterm, as the mean scores of almost all outcome measures were substantially lesser (p<0.01). Moreover, in short-time, despite a greater number of patients stating "completely recovered" in the combined group, there was no statistically significant difference between groups. Conclusions: Effects of physiotherapy plus corticosteroid injection could be more long-lasting than physiotherapy alone in improving pain intensity, disability, QoL, and treatment effectiveness in patients with SAPS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Injecting bioactive substances into the knee is common in orthopaedic practice, and recently it has been shown to mitigate risk factors for posttraumatic osteoarthritis. Therefore, understanding the influence of these injections on postoperative infection rate is imperative. Hypothesis: Postinjury aspiration and corticosteroid injection (CSI) of the knee before anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) would not increase the risk of postoperative infection. Study Design: Cohort Study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: All patients between the ages of 10 and 65 years who underwent primary bone–patellar tendon–bone ACLR by 1 fellowship-trained sports medicine orthopaedic surgeon between January 1, 2011, and September 8, 2020, at 1 of 2 major academic centers were evaluated for inclusion. A total of 693 patients were included, with 273 patients receiving postinjury and preoperative aspiration and CSI. A postoperative infection was defined as a patient returning to the operating room for an intra-articular washout. The intervals—measured in days—between the CSI and ACLR and between ACLR and the final follow-up were recorded. To further evaluate the infection risk in each cohort (total cohort; aspiration and injection cohort; no aspiration and injection cohort), the upper 95% confidence bound for the infection risk was calculated for each cohort. Results: There were no postoperative infections in the 693 patients included in this study. The upper 95% confidence bounds were 0.4%, 1.1%, and 0.7% for the total cohort, the cohort that underwent aspiration and injection, and the cohort that did not, respectively. The median number of days between the surgical date and that of the aspiration and injection was 34 days, and the mean follow-up for the entire cohort was 337.4 days (95% CI, 307.6-367.3). Conclusion: Postinjury and preoperative aspiration and CSI is a safe intervention that can be used before ACLR. Future studies with larger sample sizes, longer patient follow-ups, and multiple surgeons would be helpful to both better understand infection risk and better identify the influence of CSI on preventing posttraumatic osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the current literature on the use of image-guided corticosteroid injections in the treatment of patients with knee and hip OA. Evidence acquisition: We conducted a comprehensive literature search through June 30, 2022. Publication type, study design, imaging guidance modality, osteoarthritis severity, number of injections, steroid type and dose, anesthetic type and dose, the total number of patients, follow-up intervals, and measured outcomes were extracted from the included studies. Evidence synthesis: There were 23 included studies (10 hips, 12 knees, 1 both hip and knee). Hip injections were found to be effective in treating short- and long-term pain and more effective than hyaluronic acid, Mepivacaine, NSAIDs, and normal saline in terms of improvement in pain and/or function. There was less impact on QoL. Knee injections were found either to have little or no impact or were similar or inferior to comparison injections (intra-articular hyaluronic acid, PRP, NSAIDs, normal saline, adductor canal blocks). Study data could not be aggregated because the corticosteroid types and doses, methods of outcome assessment, and follow-up time points varied widely. Conclusion: Our systematic review found generally positive outcomes for the hip, but overall negative outcomes for the knee, although hip injections may carry a risk of serious adverse outcomes. A larger trial with uniform methodology is warranted. Specific studies on the adverse effects of corticosteroid injections are also warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Carpal tunnel (CT) syndrome continues to be a commonly treated hand pathology. We aimed to evaluate several CT injection techniques for (1) spatial accuracy within the CT and (2) risk of median nerve (MN) injury. Our purpose was to evaluate for any significant differences in accuracy of needle placement within the carpal tunnel and final distance between the needle tip and the MN with each technique. Methods: Fifteen fresh frozen cadaveric arms were used for this study. Six different injection techniques for CT injection were performed on each specimen, including palmaris longus, ulnar to flexor carpi radialis, trans-flexor carpi radialis, volar radial, volar ulnar, and direct through the palm techniques. After needle placement, a standard open CT release was performed to assess for accuracy of placement within the CT and measure needle position in relation to the MN and other anatomic structures. Results: Accurate intra-CT needle placement was seen in 91% of injections. While there was no significant difference between injection techniques for distance to nearest tendon (p = 0.1531), the trans-flexor carpi radialis (tFCR), volar radial (VR), and volar ulnar (VU) techniques consistently provided the greatest intra-CT distance from needle tip to median nerve (p = 0.0019). The least incidence of intraneural needle placement was found with the tFCR and VR approaches. Conclusion: All six injection techniques reliably enter the CT space. The lowest risk to the MN was found with tFCR and VR techniques, and we recommend these techniques for safe and effective needle placement to avoid iatrogenic intraneural injection. Level of evidence: Level V: Cadaveric Study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prior studies suggest steroid injections may affect infection rates following thumb carpometacarpal joint (CMCJ) arthroplasty. However, it is unclear whether injections prior to CMCJ arthroplasty affect functional outcomes, primarily Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (qDASH). Methods: We retrospectively identified patients who underwent thumb CMCJ arthroplasty from 2015 to 2019. Patients who had qDASH scores reported preoperatively, and at 5 and 11 months postoperatively were included. Charts were reviewed for the presence or absence of prior corticosteroid injection to the CMCJ and complications. Delta qDASH was calculated by subtracting the patients' postoperative qDASH scores from the preoperative qDASH scores. Results: In all, 350 CMCJ arthroplasty patients were identified, 177 who had received at least 1 steroid injection and 173 who were steroid-naïve. No significant differences existed in delta qDASH scores postoperatively between the injection and naïve groups at 5 months (28.5 vs 28.6) or 11 months (31.2 vs 31.9). Whereas there were no significant differences in rates of major complications between the 2 groups, minor complications were higher in the injection group (16.4% vs 9.2%). Patients who received more than 3 injections did not have worse 5-month or 11-month delta qDASH scores or complication rates than those with fewer than 3. Conclusions: Preoperative CMCJ steroid injection status does not affect major complication rates or functional outcomes following CMCJ arthroplasty. However, injections increase the rate of minor complications. The qDASH and complication rates following CMCJ arthroplasty are not affected by receiving greater than 3 injections preoperatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to compare the effect of corticosteroid injection (CSI) followed by therapeutic ultrasound (TUS) with that of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis (PF) and to explore the impact of a sedentary lifestyle and obesity on treatment outcomes. Female patients with PF were randomly allocated to receive ESWT (group A, n = 25) or CSI + TUS (group B, n = 25). Interventions: Group A received four once-weekly sessions of ESWT (2000 shocks, 2.5 bar pressure, 10.0 Hz frequency). Group B received a local injection of 40 mg triamcinolone acetonide with 2 mL 1% xylocaine, followed by three sessions of TUS per week for two weeks. Pain visual analog scale (VAS pain), plantar fasciitis pain and disability scale (PFPDS), and fascia thickness using musculoskeletal ultrasound were all measured at baseline, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks after the end of treatment. VAS pain and PFPDS improved significantly in both groups after 4 and 12 weeks. In the ESWT group, the pain improved significantly more at 12 weeks (p = 0.004). In obese patients (BMI > 29.9 kg/m2), ESWT gave more long-term pain relief at 12 weeks follow-up. In both the ESWT and CSI + TUS groups, after 12 weeks, the VAS pain improved more in patients with a sedentary daily life than in those with active life (p = 0.021 and p = 0.014, resp.), as well as the PFPDS (p = 0.014 and p = 0.019, resp.). Plantar fascia thickness decreased in both groups at 12 weeks. In both groups, improvements in function (PFPDS) correlated significantly with decreased plantar fascia thickness at 4 and 12 weeks. In the CSI + TUS group only, the decrease in plantar fascia thickness was correlated with pain improvement at both follow-up visits. Echogenicity changed from hypoechoic to iso- or hyperechoic and improved significantly in both groups at 12 weeks follow-up, but changes were not different between the groups (p = 0.208). Both CSI + TUS and ESWT are effective treatments for female patients with chronic plantar fasciitis resulting in pain relief and improved function and fascia thickness. ESWT gave more pain relief at 12 weeks follow-up. CSI + TUS is effective as a rapid and short-term modality for relieving PF pain. According to previous studies, the addition of TUS does not appear to make CSI much more effective.

Background: This study aims to determine the risks of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) and revision associated with injecting a preexisting total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with intra-articular corticosteroids (IACSs). Methods: The PearlDiver database was used to identify patients who underwent elective, primary TKA between 2015 and 2019. Patients who received IACS injections into the ipsilateral knee within 1 year after their primary TKA were matched 2:1 on age, gender, and Charlson comorbidity index and compared to a no-injection control group. The incidence of PJI at 1 year postoperatively and revision at 2 years postoperatively were compared between groups. Results: A total of 27,059 patients were in the injection cohort and 54,116 patients in the control cohort. The overall PJI rate was 1.3% in the injection cohort and 0.8% in the control cohort (P < .001). The rate of PJI increased with the number of post-TKA IACS injections received: 1 injection (1.3%), 2 injections (1.4%), and >3 injections (1.8%) (P < .001 for all, compared to controls). The revision rate was 3.1% in the injection cohort and 1.3% in the control cohort (P < .001). Revision rates increased with the number of post-TKA IACS injections received: 1 injection (2.5%), 2 injections (4.2%), and >3 injections (7.3%) (P < .001 for all, compared to controls). Conclusions: IACS injections into a preexisting TKA are associated with an incremental increased risk of prosthetic joint infection and revision. Considering the potential deleterious impact of PJI and complexity of revision procedures, IACS injections into a preexisting TKA should be strongly discouraged.

Aim: This study, it was aimed to compare and evaluate the effectiveness of local corticosteroid injection and corticosteroid phonophoresis on grip strength, functional status, pain, and quality of life in lateral epicondylitis. Materials and Methods: Patients with a diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis who underwent corticosteroid phonophoresis or local corticosteroid injection were included in the study. Patients were grouped according to the treatment they received. In the first group, corticosteroid phonophoresis was applied to the lateral epicondyle region using a continuous mode ultrasonic at 1.0 W/cm2 and 1mHz dose with 0.1% betamethasone valerate cream as a conductive agent. In the second group, corticosteroid and local anesthetic injections were applied to the lateral epicondyle region. Two groups received the supervised exercise program. Before treatment and two weeks after treatment, visual analog scale, muscle strength, grip strength, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores, and Nothingom Health Profile results for both groups were recorded from patient files and compared. Results: A total of 43 patients (23 phonophoresis, 20 corticosteroid injections) were enrolled. Although pain, function, and quality of life of patients improved significantly with both groups, no significant difference was recorded between the groups. Grip and palmar pinch strength significantly increased in only the phonophoresis group. In addition, changing of grip and palmar pinch strength was significantly better in the phonophoresis group than in the corticosteroid injection group. Conclusion: It was determined that corticosteroid administration via phonophoresis instead of injection was more beneficial in terms of grip and palmar pinch strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction It is unclear whether hydrodilatation is beneficial in the management of frozen shoulder compared with other common conservative management modalities. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of hydrodilatation for the management of frozen shoulder. Sources of data A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. An extensive search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Central, Web of Science and CINAHL databases using multiple keyword combinations of 'shoulder', 'rotator', 'adhesive capsulitis', 'hydrodilatat*', 'distension' since inception of the databases to June 2023 was implemented. Areas of agreement Hydrodilatation leads to at least transient more marked improvements in shoulder disability and passive external rotation compared with intra-articular corticosteroid injections. Areas of controversy Hydrodilatation improves passive external rotation in the longer term. Moreover, hydrodilatation may be a preferable option over manipulation under anaesthesia, given its lower cost and better patient convenience. Growing points Intensive mobilization after hydrodilatation is a promising adjuvant treatment option for patients suffering from a frozen shoulder. Areas timely for developing research Although current evidence suggests that hydrodilatation provides a transient improvement in disability in patients with frozen shoulder, its clinical relevance remains unclear. Further research is necessary to establish its role in the management of the condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comparing short- and long-term effects of comprehensive physiotherapy (CP) and subacromial corticosteroid injection (SCI) on pain, disability, and quality of life in the patients with subacromial pain syndrome (SAPS). 2 × 4 randomized controlled trial. 50 participants with unilateral SAPS. Random assignment with allocation concealment into two groups labeled as 12 sessions, supervised CP (n = 22) and 1cc triamhexal SCI (n = 25). Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), shortened Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Quick-DASH), and Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index (WORC). Outcomes were gathered pre- and post-intervention, with three- and six-month follow-ups. Variance analysis revealed that there was a significant interaction of group-in-time for SPADI and WORC (P <.05) but not for Quick-DASH and VAS (P >.05). The independent t-test analysis showed that the mean scores of all outcome measures in CP group were lesser than SCI group via 6 months (P <.05), except for the VAS (P >.05, mean difference = −0.97, 95% confidence interval −2.11–0.15). CP results in statistically significant and potentially clinically important difference in function and quality of the life at all timeframe. Moreover, there was no between group difference in order to reduce pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated with corticosteroid injections (CIs) and surgery. In this systematic review, the influence of previous CI on different postoperative outcomes after carpal tunnel release is evaluated. Methods A systematic literature search using several databases was performed to include studies that examined patients diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome who received preoperative or intraoperative CIs. Results Of 2,459 articles, 9 were eligible for inclusion. Four papers reported outcomes of preoperative and four outcomes of intraoperative CIs. One study evaluated patients who received both intraoperative and preoperative corticosteroids. Conclusion Intraoperative CIs are associated with reduced postoperative pain after carpal tunnel release and support earlier recovery of the hand function that can be objectified in a faster median nerve conduction speed recovery and lower Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) scores. Using preoperative CIs did not lead to enhanced recovery after carpal tunnel release, and both preoperative and intraoperative CIs might be predisposing factors for infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is no consensus about the optimum treatment or treatment algorithm for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). In previous randomized studies that compared open carpal tunnel release and local steroid injections (LSIs), the two most used nonconservative treatments, conflicting results were found. Objective: The objective of the study was to compare the efficacies of surgery and LSI in the treatment of CTS. Subjects and Methods: A randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted with 80 patients who were clinically diagnosed as having idiopathic CTS. The requirements for enrollment were awakening from sleep due to nocturnal paresthesia and a diagnosis to be confirmed through electrodiagnostic tests. Patients were randomly assigned to the surgery and the steroid groups. Assessments were performed at baseline and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after initial treatment. The primary outcome measure was the improvement of awakening from sleep. Results: A total of 80 patients were enrolled in the study. Thirty-six patients were assigned to the surgery group and 44 to the steroid group. None of our patients were lost to follow-up. Fourteen out of the 44 patients in the steroid group and all 36 patients in the surgery group had a successful outcome at the 12-month assessment. Success rates in the steroid group at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months were 77.3%, 61.4%, 45.5%, and 31.8%, respectively. When the injection group was evaluated separately, LSI was found more successful in mild cases and unilateral cases. Conclusion: Surgery should be chosen for the treatment of moderate-to-severe idiopathic CTS, but LSI may be used for mild cases. The historical-objective scale may predict which patient will benefit from which treatment.

Abstract Background Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common entrapment neuropathy. Local injections of corticosteroids have proven to be an effective treatment option. Injections are either blind (non-guided) or guided by ultrasound. The current study aimed to compare the efficiency of both approaches and determine which one yields better results. Method This study involved 30 patients (8 males, 22 females, aged 36–58 years, mean age 48.3 years) with 30 affected hands with mild or moderate carpal tunnel syndrome. Patients were randomly divided into two equal groups. Steroid injections were performed blindly in group 1 and ultrasound-guided in group 2. A mixture of 2 ml of triamcinolone and lidocaine was administered at both groups. Follow-up (using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire and ultrasound assessment) was performed 4 weeks after the injection. Results The symptom severity scale, functional status scale, cross-sectional area, and flattening ratio were significantly reduced in both groups at 4 weeks after the procedure. The ultrasound-guided group showed a statistically significant improvement compared to the blindly injected group. Conclusions Local steroid injection is an effective method in the management of both idiopathic and secondary carpal tunnel syndrome. Although clinical and sonographic improvement was achieved with blind and guided steroid injections, better results were obtained when ultrasound was used.

Abstract Background There has been no ideal treatment for freezing-phase frozen shoulder to rapidly relieve pain and improve joint mobility. No any other team directly compared the effectiveness of combination of arthroscopic release and corticosteroid hydrodilatation with corticosteroid hydrodilatation only in treatment of freezing-phase frozen shoulder. Methods Seventy-two patients with freezing-phase frozen shoulder were randomly assigned to combined arthroscopic release with corticosteroid hydrodilatation (group A) or corticosteroid hydrodilatation only (group B). Clinical states were examined at baseline and periodically (Weeks 1, 4, 12, 24 and 1 year) after intervention by passive ROM; visual analog scale (VAS); UCLA and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score. Results The passive ROM, VAS, UCLA and DASH scores always improved along the time points (all p 0.01), the differences between group A and group B were all lower than minimal clinically important difference (MCID). At Week 12, the UCLA sores and DASH scores were 26.8 ± 3.8, 14.2 ± 2.0 in group A versus 22.3 ± 3.4, 22.5 ± 3.1 in group B (all p

Background: Primary gonarthrosis is a progressive disease that increases with age and leads to limitations in activities of daily living. Until surgery is performed, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, intraarticular injections, and physical therapy methods are used. Purpose: This study aims to compare the clinical outcomes of intra- articular corticosteroid (CCS) and hyaluro nic acid (HA) injections for pain relief in primary gonartrhosis in COVID -19 pandemic period. Study Design: Retrospective Cohort Study. Methods: In this study, 88 patients who underwent intra-articular CCS and HA injection between August 2020 and March 2021 due to Kellgren-Lawrence stage 2 and higher gonarthrosis were investigated. Patients were divided into two groups. Group I represents the patients who received HA injections, and group II represents the patients who received CCS injection. Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and Knee Society Score (KSS) scores were used for the preoperative and postoperative functional evaluations of the patients. Results: Group I included 40 patients and group II included 48 patients. The mean age was 59.4 ± 7.3 years, and the average follow-up period was 12 ± 2,6 months. The pre-intervention WOMAC scores were 13,5 in Group I and 13.6 in Group II, KSS scores were 26,5 in Group I and 25,2 in Group II. While there was a significant change in the control at month 1 in both groups, no difference was found between the groups. At the 6th month control, the improvement in group 1 continued at a significant level compared to the pre-injection period, while group 2 returned to the pre-injection level. (p

Background: Lateral epicondylitis is a chronic tendinopathy of humeral origin of the common extensor tendon. Most patients show improvement after nonoperative treatment. However, 4% to 11% of patients require surgical treatment. Although corticosteroid injection is one of the most commonly applied nonoperative treatment methods, to the authors' knowledge, no study has reported the effect of the number of preoperative corticosteroid injections on the final postoperative outcome. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the effect of the number of preoperative corticosteroid injections on postoperative clinical outcomes. Hypothesis: The number of corticosteroid injections before surgical treatment does not affect postoperative clinical outcomes. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: As a retrospective review, from January 2007 to December 2019, a total of 99 patients who had undergone surgical treatment of lateral epicondylitis with a modified Nirschl technique were enrolled. The number of preoperative corticosteroid injections was investigated by medical record review. Outcome measurements included visual analog pain scale; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score; Mayo Elbow Performance Score; and the Nirschl and Pettrone grade. Grip power and wrist extension power were measured using a digital dynamometer. Results: A total of 99 patients were included in this study. The mean total number of injections of patients was 4.37 ± 2.46 times (range, 1-15 times). Total duration of nonoperative treatment before surgery was 25.4 ± 20.5 months (range, 4-124.8 months). The mean postoperative follow-up period was 42.8 ± 28.0 months (range, 12-110 months). For all injection numbers, clinical scores showed significant improvement in visual analog pain scale, DASH score, Mayo elbow score, grip power, and wrist extension power after surgery. Regression analysis showed that the degree of improvement according to the injection number was not statistically significant. The Nirschl and Pettrone grade was excellent in 82 (82.8%) patients, good in 14 (14.1%) patients, fair in 2 (2%) patient, and failure in 1 (1%) patient. Conclusion: The number of preoperative corticosteroid injections does not appear to affect postoperative clinical outcomes of patients with lateral epicondylitis who undergo surgery with a modified Nirschl technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of the corticosteroid (CS) injection and shock wave therapy (SWT) in the treatment of greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS). Patients and methods: Between 2020 September and 2021 October, a total of 60 patients with GTPS (12 males, 48 females; mean age: 50.8±8.5 years; range, 34 to 65 years) were included. The patients were randomly assigned to two groups as the SWT group (n=32) receiving one session of SWT per week for a total of three weeks and CS injection group (n=28) receiving CS and local anesthetic. Both groups were evaluated using the Short Form-36 (SF-36) at baseline and three months and using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) at baseline, three weeks, and three months. Results: The mean VAS, greater trochanter tenderness, and WOMAC scores of both groups were similar at baseline, while the third-week and three-month scores were significantly lower in both groups compared to baseline (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in the treatment efficacy between the groups (p>0.05). There was a similar improvement in SF-36 physical function, physical role difficulty, and pain subscales in both groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: Our study results show that both CS injection and SWT are effective modalities and none of the treatments is superior to each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is a common problem with an incidence of 1.8–5.6 per 1000 population. Physiotherapy, anti-inflammatories, corticosteroid injections and surgery have all been described in the management of GTPS, with limited, temporal success. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has been proposed as a potential non-invasive management option for this difficult presentation. Method: We ran a prospective, 2-arm, single-blinded, randomised control trial comparing focused shockwave therapy (f-ESWT) to an ultrasound guided corticosteroid injection. Primary outcome measure was the visual analogue pain score. Secondary outcome measures included the Harris Hip Score (HHS) and Trendelenburg test for function; SF-36 for quality of life (QoL); and a Likert scale question for subjective assessment of symptom improvement. Results: 104 patients (10 males and 94 females), of mean age 61.5 years were recruited. 53 were randomised to receive ESWT and 51 to receive an image-guided injection. 11 patients were lost to follow-up. There were no significant differences in baseline scores between groups. At 3 months, pain, function and QoL scores had improved in both groups but were not statistically significant. The Trendelenburg test was significantly improved in the f-ESWT group with 80% patients being negative compared to 20% at baseline (p < 0.001). At 12 months, across all outcomes, the ESWT group had significantly improved scores compared to the injection group; VAS 37.1 versus 55.0 (p = 0.007, 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.3–30.8), HHS 69.7 versus 57.5 (p = 0.002, 95% CI, −20.0 to −4.6) and SF-36 52.4 versus 47.7 (p = 0.048, 95% CI, −9.31 to −0.04). The improvement in Trendelenburg test was maintained in the ESWT group, but the injection group had reverted to baseline (p < 0.001). Conclusions: We have shown f-ESWT is an effective treatment for patients with GTPS. We would advocate f-ESWT as an effective non-invasive treatment modality for this challenging patient population. Trial Registration No. ISRCTN8338223 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Corticosteroid injections have proven benefit in the treatment of symptomatic trigger finger; however, the immune system and tissue repair modulating properties of corticosteroids justify further consideration in surgical candidates. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between corticosteroid injections and postoperative infection in trigger finger release. Methods: A single-center retrospective review was conducted of patients seen from 2010 to 2019 to identify those who underwent trigger finger release with subsequent antibiotic prescription for chart-documented wound infection. A demographic matched cohort of 100 patients was identified for comparison. Preoperative corticosteroid injection history including timing, frequency, and dose was collected for all patients. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and presence of postoperative infection were collected from patient medical records. Superficial infection was defined as those requiring antibiotics for resolution without return to the operating room; deep infection was defined as infections that required irrigation and debridement. Results: Of 3234 patients who underwent trigger finger release, 58 (1.8%) were identified with postoperative infections, 6 (0.2%) of which were deep infections. History of corticosteroid injection was significantly more common in patients with postoperative infection. Compared with an age-matched, gender-matched, and body mass index–matched cohort, patients with postoperative infection had significantly increased rate of diabetes mellitus at 34.5% to 19% (P =.04) Conclusions: While corticosteroid injection in the preoperative period is associated with a higher rate of postoperative infection, the time before surgery and the corticosteroid dose do not appear to have an effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Sciences is the property of Turkiye Klinikleri and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Corticosteroid injections (CSIs) are effective in alleviating pain in patients with rotator cuff tears, but controversy still exists regarding their potential adverse effects on clinical outcomes after rotator cuff repair. Purpose: To compare both the functional and the structural outcomes in patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with or without preoperative CSIs. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was carried out among patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for partial- and full-thickness tears between 2015 and 2019. The patients who received preoperative CSIs were included in the CSI group and compared with a group without preoperative CSIs (non-CSI group), matched at a ratio of 1:2 based on tear size, age, and follow-up time. Both functional evaluation and structural assessments using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed at the final follow-up. Clinical outcomes—including retear rate as the primary outcome; pain; functional scores including the Constant-Murley score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and Fudan University Shoulder Score; range of motion (ROM); tendon integrity; tendon healing type; and cartilage thickness—were compared between the 2 groups with a statistical significance of P <.05 and power of 0.9. Results: Thirty-one patients were included in the CSI group, and 62 were included in the non-CSI group. After a mean 3-year follow-up, the 2 groups demonstrated no significant differences in retear rate; visual analog scale for pain; shoulder functional scores; and active ROM including forward flexion, abduction, external rotation, and internal rotation. No significant differences were observed on postoperative MRI scans of the rotator cuff tendon (tendon integrity, healing type, residual tendon attachment area, etc), cartilage thickness, and muscle atrophy. Conclusion: No significant differences were found at a mean 3-year follow-up in the retear rates, pain, ROM, and glenohumeral structure on postoperative MRI scans after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with or without preoperative CSIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of the study was to compare low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and local corticosteroid injection in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Patients and methods: This retrospective study was performed with 56 patients (6 males, 50 females; mean age: 44.7±10.1 years; range, 18 to 65 years) between January 2015 and March 2016. The patients were equally divided into two groups: Group 1, comprising patients who underwent a one-time local corticosteroid injection into the heel by the same physician, and Group 2, including patients who had gallium arsenide laser therapy at a wavelength of 904 nm lasting 10 sessions. Evaluations were done at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and two weeks, one month, and three months after the post-treatment evaluation. The post-treatment evaluation was accepted as the 10th day after the injection in Group 1 and as the time after the last session of the laser treatment in Group 2. Each visit was compared with the previous visit for within-group analysis. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Heel Tenderness Index (HTI), and Foot Function Index (FFI) were assessed. Results: Pain scores in Group 1 and Group 2 were not associated with statistically significant differences (p>0.05). Within-groups analysis demonstrated statistically significant differences concerning VAS subgroups (p<0.05), except for Group 2's resting VAS values (p=0.159). No statistically significant differences were found between groups in the means of FFI scores (p>0.05). Statistically significant differences were observed regarding within-group analyses for all subscores (p<0.001). No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups for all visits regarding HTI scores (p>0.05). Statistically significant differences were found between baseline and the first after-treatment visit in all groups (p<0.05). Statistically significant differences were found in the first (p=0.020) and third (p=0.010) months compared to the one-week follow-up in Group 2 regarding HTI scores. Conclusion: Both LLLT and local corticosteroid injection for plantar fasciitis have positive effects for three months after treatment. However, LLLT is more effective than local corticosteroid injection at the end of the third month in local tenderness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carpal tunnel syndrome is an extremely common condition in the general population. Nonoperative treatment is a mainstay of management prior to surgical carpal tunnel release. Injections are frequently used as treatment, especially corticosteroid injections, but there is little consensus in the literature regarding injection number, volume, corticosteroid dose, and technique. A comprehensive literature search was performed of PubMed to identify papers relating to corticosteroid injections as well as other injections performed in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. A total of 45 articles were selected for inclusion in this review. Corticosteroid injections for carpal tunnel syndrome are discussed in detail, including injection number, volume, and technique as well as corticosteroid dose. Alternative injections for management of carpal tunnel syndrome are also discussed. Corticosteroid injections have been identified as a safe, effective short term management option for carpal tunnel syndrome. However, there is no standardized recommendation for specifics of their use in relation to corticosteroid dose, number of injections, injectate volume, and use of ultrasound guidance. Further research is required to better establish the optimal role for corticosteroid injections in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Platelet rich plasma, lidocaine, and hyaluronic acid, among others, are additional injections that warrant further exploration for use in management of carpal tunnel syndrome. • CSIs are a safe, effective nonoperative treatment method for CTS in the short term. • Alternative injections are emerging, which include PRP, hyaluronic acid, and local anesthetics. • There exists much variability in the literature regarding the use of corticosteroid injections, including injection number, corticosteroid dose, injectate volume, and use of ultrasound guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]