Search

Background : Several surgical options for degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) are available, but current guidelines do not recommend which one should be prioritized. Although previous network meta-analyses (NMAs) have been performed on this topic, they have major methodological problems and could not provide the convincing evidence and clinical practical information required. Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing at least two surgical interventions were included by searching AMED, CINAHL, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and MEDLINE (inception to August 2023). A frequentist random-effects NMA was performed for physical function and adverse events due to any reason. For physical function, three follow-up time points were included: short-term (< 6 months post-intervention), mid-term (≥ 6 months but < 12 months), and long-term (≥ 12 months). Laminectomy was the reference comparison intervention. Results: A total of 43 RCTs involving 5017 participants were included in the systematic review and 28 RCTs encompassing 14 types of surgical interventions were included in the NMA. For improving physical function (scale 0–100), endoscopic-assisted laminotomy (mean difference: − 8.61, 95% confidence interval: − 10.52 to − 6.69; moderate-quality evidence), laminectomy combined with Coflex (− 8.41, − 13.21 to − 3.61; moderate quality evidence), and X-stop (− 6.65, − 8.60 to − 4.71; low-quality evidence) had small effects at short-term follow-up; no statistical difference was observed at mid-term follow-up (very low- to low-quality evidence); at long-term follow-up, endoscopic-assisted laminotomy (− 7.02, − 12.95 to − 1.08; very low-quality evidence) and X-stop (− 10.04, − 18.16 to − 1.93; very low-quality evidence) had a small and moderate effect, respectively. Compared with laminectomy, endoscopic-assisted laminotomy was associated with fewer adverse events due to any reason (odds ratio: 0.27, 0.09 to 0.86; low-quality evidence). Conclusions: For adults with degenerative LSS, endoscopic-assisted laminotomy may be the safest and most effective intervention in improving physical function. However, the available data were insufficient to indicate whether the effect was sustainable after 6 months. Trial registration: PROSPERO (CRD42018094180). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The process of the globally aging population has been accelerating, leading to an increasing social burden. As people age, the musculoskeletal system will gradually go through a series of degenerative and loss of function and eventually develop age-related musculoskeletal diseases, like sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis. On the other hand, several studies have shown that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) possess various important physiological functions on the health of muscles, bones, and joints. Objective: This narrative review paper provides a summary of the literature about the effects and mechanisms of PUFAs on age-related musculoskeletal diseases for the prevention and management of these diseases. Methods: Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus databases have been searched to select the relevant literature on epidemiological, cellular, and animal experiments and clinical evidence in recent decades with keywords "polyunsaturated fatty acids", "PUFAs", "omega-3", "omega-6", "musculoskeletal diseases", "sarcopenia", "osteoporosis", "osteoarthritis", and so on. Results: PUFAs could prevent and treat age-related musculoskeletal diseases (sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis) by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation and controlling the growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and autophagy of cells. This review paper provides comprehensive evidence of PUFAs on age-related musculoskeletal diseases, which will be helpful for exploitation into functional foods and drugs for their prevention and treatment. Conclusions: PUFAs could play an important role in the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multidisciplinary collaboration and radiology-pathology correlation are key components to advancing our knowledge and understanding of musculoskeletal disease and improving clinical care. The International Skeletal Society was founded on this principle and in its 50-year history it has successfully cultivated a globally recognized and respected Annual Meeting and Refresher Course to foster interest and share expertise in musculoskeletal disorders. The Society's consistent efforts for outreach and intersociety connections with MSK societies around the world have further strengthened its heritage. This look back on the Society's first 50 years recounts how it all started, where it has been, and provides insights on its promising future, not only in its support for education and scientific discovery, but also in its enrichment of precision medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Work-related shoulder disorders adversely affect the quality of life and lead to increased costs related to decreased productivity and injury treatment. Therefore, understanding the relationship between strength, upper extremity function and work ability contributes to the development of interventions aimed to improve the well-being of healthcare workers. OBJECTIVE: Correlate shoulder abduction and handgrip strength with upper extremity function and work ability in healthcare workers with shoulder complaints. METHODS: 67 workers with shoulder pain in the last year were assessed by Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), Work Ability Index (WAI), isokinetic shoulder strength and isometric handgrip strength dynamometers. Data were analysed with Spearman's Correlation Coefficient (ρ= 0.05), SPSS 20.0®. RESULTS: 52% males, mean age 48.4 years, 42% physically active, most administrative and general services workers. Low correlation between handgrip strength and QuickDASH (r=-0.359; p = 0.004); low correlation between handgrip strength and WAI (r = 0.359; p = 0.003) and between shoulder abduction strength and the QuickDASH (r = -0.267; p = 0.049); no significant correlation between shoulder abduction strength and WAI (r = 0.001; p = 0.997). CONCLUSIONS: Handgrip and shoulder abduction strength were inversely associated with upper extremity dysfunction. Shoulder abduction strength was associated with work ability. The inclusion of strength assessment in workers is important to guide strategies to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Nowadays, the demand for physical therapy services has grown significantly over the last few decades due to an aging population, a rise in chronic conditions, and increased awareness of the benefits of physical therapy for injury recovery and managing various health issues. Collecting and managing data from physical therapy services is highly significant and beneficial. One of the information management systems that facilitates data collection related to physical therapy services is a physical therapy registry. In this systematic review, we aimed to identify physical therapy registries worldwide and examine the characteristics and data elements of each registry. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and IEEE databases were searched from inception until March 19, 2023 by using keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms regarding "registries" and "physical therapy." The criteria for inclusion in the study were: (1) studies with the English language; (2) original studies, and online access to the physical therapy registry is available; (3) full‐text available; (4) studies related to the aims of the study, and (5) studies that have sufficient available information regarding the minimum datasets and other characteristics physical therapy registry. The methodological quality of the included studies was independently assessed by two reviewers using the Effective Public Health Practice Project's (EPHPP) quality assessment tool. Results: Sixteen studies were eligible to be included. The findings of this review indicated that the oldest physical therapy registry was established in 1992, while the newest one was established in 2017. The USA has the highest number of physical therapy registries (n = 7). Ten registries were funded by the government, and the data source for most registries was collected in clinics (n = 11). The geographical coverage of 10 registries was national. All registries collected administrative data (such as sociodemographic data, healthcare provider's data, and others) and clinical data (such as diagnosis, type of physical therapy intervention, pain location, comorbidities, and others) through web‐based systems. The data collection method in half of the registries was retrospective (n = 8 out of 16). According to the EPHPP quality assessment tool, 11 studies (73%) were rated as moderate, 3 (20%) as weak, and 1 (7%) as strong. Conclusion: This systematic review found that most developed countries have implemented web‐based physical therapy registries to collect administrative and clinical data at the national level. It is recommended that developing countries design and implement similar registries based on these characteristics and extracted data elements. Additionally, these registries should be designed to enable data sharing and interoperability with other international health information systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most important problems faced by ergonomists today. OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of weather conditions, working conditions and mental workload on musculoskeletal disorders of rescuers and water and sewage company accidents in hot and cold seasons. METHODS: The present study was a longitudinal study that was performed on all employees of rescue and disaster teams of Shiraz Water and Sewerage Company in Iran (184 people) by census. Demographic and Nordic questionnaires, NASA Load Index (NASA-TLX), work environment assessment with temperature screening checklist and workplace ergonomic risk factor (WERA) assessment method were performed by the researcher. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 23 software and parametric and non-parametric statistical tests. RESULTS: The results showed that the highest and lowest prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders related to knee and back in winter and thigh in summer with prevalence of 57.1, 55.4 and 6%. The comparison of exposure to heat stress factors in summer and winter seasons showed that the temperature factors and work clothes of the workers in both seasons are in worse conditions than other factors (P < 0968). The results of the mental workload of people in two seasons showed that the highest and lowest mental workload is related to physical changes in the winter season and frustration in the summer season, and this relationship was significant (P < 0.001). Using multiple logistic regression model, the potential risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries including age, height, BMI, level of education and work experience in both hot and cold seasons were compared. The results showed that in summer, work experience (OR = 1.16 (1.06–1.28.)) and height (OR = 1.03(0.98–1.08) had a direct effect on the prevalence of pain and discomfort arranged in the back areas. One year of increase in work experience significantly increases the chance of a disorder in the back by 16% and a one centimeter increase in height increases the chance of a disorder in the lumbar region by 3%, although this relationship is significant. CONCLUSION: It is recommended that suitable solutions such as using appropriate and up-to-date mechanical tools, reducing activity time, increasing rest time, increasing the number of personnel in order to reduce mental workload, using work clothes suitable for the season and type of work, and ergonomics training for workers are on the agenda of company officials. Water and sewage should be placed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Several surgical options for degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) are available, but current guidelines do not recommend which one should be prioritized. Although previous network meta-analyses (NMAs) have been performed on this topic, they have major methodological problems and could not provide the convincing evidence and clinical practical information required. Methods Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing at least two surgical interventions were included by searching AMED, CINAHL, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and MEDLINE (inception to August 2023). A frequentist random-effects NMA was performed for physical function and adverse events due to any reason. For physical function, three follow-up time points were included: short-term (

BACKGROUND: Multiple observational studies have suggested a potential association between telomere length and musculoskeletal diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the genetic causal relationship between telomere length and musculoskeletal diseases using two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis. METHODS: Genome-wide association study summary data of telomere length were obtained from the UK Biobank. Genome-wide association study summary data of 10 common musculoskeletal diseases (osteonecrosis, osteomyelitis, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, low back pain, spinal stenosis, gout, scapulohumeral periarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and deep venous thrombosis of lower limbs) were obtained from the FinnGen consortium. Inverse variance weighting, Mendelian randomization-Egger and weighted median methods were used to evaluate the causal relationship between telomere length and 10 musculoskeletal diseases. Inverse variance weighting was the primary Mendelian randomization analysis method, and sensitivity analysis was performed to explore the robustness of the results. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Inverse variance-weighted results indicated a negative causal relationship between genetically predicted telomere length and rheumatoid arthritis (odds ratio=0.78, 95% confidence interval: 0.64-0.95, P=0.015) and osteonecrosis (odds ratio=0.56, 95% confidence interval: 0.36-0.90, P=0.016). No causal relationship was found between telomere length and the other eight musculoskeletal diseases (all P > 0.05). (2) Sensitivity analysis affirmed the robustness of these causal relationships, and Mendelian randomization-Egger intercept analysis found no evidence of potential horizontal pleiotropy (all P > 0.05). (3) This Mendelian randomized study supports that telomere length has protective effects against rheumatoid arthritis and osteonecrosis. However, more basic and clinical research will be needed to support our findings in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: The Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health (SJWEH) was established half a century ago. This paper provides an overview of research on musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) published over these 50 years. Three themes are described: risk assessment, interventions to prevent work-related MSD, and interventions to support work participation. Finally, implications for future research are highlighted. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed for all papers on MSD published in SJWEH. Each paper was coded on several criteria including research topic, type of MSD, risk factor(s), and number of citations. Findings were tabulated, and discussions within the author team defined the main results and future research directions. RESULTS: The search resulted in 1056 papers, of which 474 were included. The most reported-on MSD was low-back pain (LBP, 18%) and the most reported-on work-related risk factors were physically demanding work (14%) and psychosocial factors (12%). Research has contributed to improving case definitions, refining work-related exposure criteria, and recognizing the varying importance of physical and psychosocial factors across different MSD. Research on the association between work-related risk factors and LBP continues to emerge. Effective interventions for prevention of MSD are characterised by sufficient exposure reduction, while supporting work participation requires integrating health care, with multidisciplinary actions directed at factors involving the worker, employer, and workplace. CONCLUSION: Research has provided valuable insights into risk assessment, interventions for preventing work-related MSD, and supporting work participation. Intervention studies remain warranted and new areas include adopting whole-system approaches to prevent work-related MSD and promoting the concept of musculoskeletal health.

OBJECTIVES: The aim was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis investigating the association between occupational mechanical exposures and hip osteoarthritis. METHODS: The study was registered in PROSPERO. A systematic literature search was conducted in six databases to identify relevant articles. Two authors independently excluded articles, extracted data, assessed the risk of bias of each included article, and graded the level of evidence. We conducted a meta-analysis using random-effects model and performed a sensitivity analysis stratifying articles based on the risk of bias assessment, study design, and the outcome measurement. RESULTS: Twenty-four articles were eligible for inclusion. The highest pooled odds ratio (OR) was found for combined mechanical exposures [OR 1.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4–2.0], non-neutral postures (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.4–2.1), lifting/carrying loads (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.3–1.9), and climbing stairs (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1–2.2). The range of pooled OR for the remaining mechanical exposures (eg, standing, walking, kneeling, squatting, and sitting) was 0.6–1.6. Grading the quality of evidence, a moderate level of evidence was found for the combined mechanical exposures and for lifting/carrying loads. The remaining exposure categories were graded as having either low or very low levels of evidence. CONCLUSIONS: Considerable heterogeneity was observed across the included studies, and high-quality literature using objective exposure measurements is warranted. Despite various limitations affecting the comparability, occupational mechanical exposures seem to influence the likelihood of developing hip osteoarthritis.

Considering the fact that Toxoplasma is a common parasite of humans and Toxoplasma bradyzoites can reside in skeletal muscle, T. gondii-mediated immune responses may modulate the progression and pathophysiology of another musculoskeletal disorder, osteoporosis. In the current study, we investigated the association of bone health and Toxoplasma gondii infection status. A total of 138 patients living in Germany with either osteopenia or osteoporosis were included in the study, and they were categorized into two groups, T. gondii uninfected (n = 74) and infected (n = 64), based on the presence of T. gondii-specific IgG antibodies. The demographic and clinical details of the study subjects were collected from the medical records. Logistic regression analysis was performed to delineate the association of bone health parameters with the infection status. The prevalence of toxoplasmosis was 46.4% in the study participants. The infected individuals with osteopenia and osteoporosis showed higher levels of mean spine and femoral T score, Z score, and bone mineral density (BMD), indicating improved bone health compared to the uninfected group. Logistic regression analysis showed that subjects with T. gondii infection displayed increased odds of having a higher mean femur T score, femur BMD, and femur Z score even after adjusting for age, creatinine, and urea levels. However, when the duration of drug intake for osteoporosis was taken into account, the association lost statistical significance. In summary, in this study, an improvement in osteopenia and osteoporosis was observed in Toxoplasma-infected patients, which may be partly due to the longer duration of drug intake for osteoporosis in the infected patient group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is limited knowledge regarding the comparative patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) and effect sizes (ESs) across orthopedic elective surgery. Methods: All patient data between January 2020 and December 2022 were collected, and treatment outcomes assessed as a PROM difference between baseline and one-year follow-up. The cohort was divided into subgroups (hand, elbow, shoulder, spine, hip, knee, and foot/ankle). The PROM ESs were calculated for each patient separately, and patients with ES > 0.5 were considered responders. Results: In total, 7695 patients were operated on. The mean ES across all patient groups was 1.81 (SD 1.41), and the largest ES was observed in shoulder patients and the smallest in hand patients. Overall, shoulder, hip, and knee patients had a larger ES compared to hand, spine, and foot/ankle patients (p < 0.0001). The proportion of positive responders ranged between 91–94% in the knee, shoulder, and hip, and 69–70% in the hand, spine, and foot/ankle subgroups. Conclusions: The ESs are generally high throughout elective orthopedic surgery. However, based on our institutional observations, shoulder, hip, and knee patients experience larger treatment effects compared to hand, spine, and foot/ankle patients, among whom there are also more non-responders. The expected treatment outcomes should be clearly communicated to patients when considering elective surgery. Because of the study limitations, the results should be approached with some caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Personality traits are broadly related to medical conditions, but there is limited research on the association with the risk of arthritis. This multicohort study examines the concurrent and prospective associations between personality traits and arthritis risk. Methods Participants (N  > 45,000) were mostly middle-aged and older adults from 6 established longitudinal cohorts. Baseline assessments of personality traits, covariates (age, sex, education, race, ethnicity, depressive symptoms, body mass index, and smoking), and arthritis diagnosis were obtained in each sample. Arthritis incidence was assessed over 8–20 years of follow-up. Results The meta-analyses identified an association between higher neuroticism and an increased risk of concurrent (odds ratio = 1.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.16–1.24; p  < .001, I 2 = 40.27) and incident (hazard ratio = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.08–1.14; p  < .001, I 2 = 0) arthritis and between higher conscientiousness and a decreased risk of concurrent (odds ratio = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.86-0.90; p  < .001, I 2 = 0) and incident (hazard ratio = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.92–0.98; p  = .002, I 2 = 41.27) arthritis. Higher extraversion was linked to lower risk of concurrent (odds ratio = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.88–0.96; p  < .001, I 2 = 76.09) and incident (hazard ratio = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.95–0.99; p  = .018, I 2 = 0) arthritis, and openness was related to lower risk of concurrent arthritis (odds ratio = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.93–0.99; p  = .006, I 2 = 35.86). Agreeableness was unrelated to arthritis. These associations were partially accounted for by depressive symptoms, body mass index, and smoking. There was no consistent evidence of moderation by age or sex. Discussion Findings from 6 samples point to low neuroticism and higher conscientiousness as factors that reduce the risk of arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: Invasive cardiologists are exposed to large amounts of ionizing radiation. This review aims to summarize the main occupational risks in a radiation-exposed cardiology practice. Recent Findings: We carried out a literature review on the subject. The studies reviewed allowed us to list six main health risk categories possibly associated with radiation exposure among cardiologists: deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and biochemical damages; cancers; ocular manifestations; olfaction, vascular, and neuropsychological alterations; musculoskeletal problems; and reproductive risks. Summary: Our descriptive analysis demonstrates higher risks of DNA damage and lens opacities among radiation-exposed cardiology staff. Surveys and questionnaires have demonstrated a higher risk of musculoskeletal disease in exposed workers. Studies reported no difference in cancer frequency between radiation-exposed workers and controls. Changes in olfactory performance, neuropsychological aspects, and vascular changes have also been reported. Limited literature supports the security of continuing radiation-exposed work during pregnancy. Therefore, there is an urgent need to increase knowledge of the occupational risks of radiation exposure and to adopt technologies to reduce them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction Nowadays, the demand for physical therapy services has grown significantly over the last few decades due to an aging population, a rise in chronic conditions, and increased awareness of the benefits of physical therapy for injury recovery and managing various health issues. Collecting and managing data from physical therapy services is highly significant and beneficial. One of the information management systems that facilitates data collection related to physical therapy services is a physical therapy registry. In this systematic review, we aimed to identify physical therapy registries worldwide and examine the characteristics and data elements of each registry. Methods PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and IEEE databases were searched from inception until March 19, 2023 by using keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms regarding “registries” and “physical therapy.” The criteria for inclusion in the study were: (1) studies with the English language; (2) original studies, and online access to the physical therapy registry is available; (3) full‐text available; (4) studies related to the aims of the study, and (5) studies that have sufficient available information regarding the minimum datasets and other characteristics physical therapy registry. The methodological quality of the included studies was independently assessed by two reviewers using the Effective Public Health Practice Project's (EPHPP) quality assessment tool. Results Sixteen studies were eligible to be included. The findings of this review indicated that the oldest physical therapy registry was established in 1992, while the newest one was established in 2017. The USA has the highest number of physical therapy registries (n = 7). Ten registries were funded by the government, and the data source for most registries was collected in clinics (n = 11). The geographical coverage of 10 registries was national. All registries collected administrative data (such as sociodemographic data, healthcare provider's data, and others) and clinical data (such as diagnosis, type of physical therapy intervention, pain location, comorbidities, and others) through web‐based systems. The data collection method in half of the registries was retrospective (n = 8 out of 16). According to the EPHPP quality assessment tool, 11 studies (73%) were rated as moderate, 3 (20%) as weak, and 1 (7%) as strong. Conclusion This systematic review found that most developed countries have implemented web‐based physical therapy registries to collect administrative and clinical data at the national level. It is recommended that developing countries design and implement similar registries based on these characteristics and extracted data elements. Additionally, these registries should be designed to enable data sharing and interoperability with other international health information systems.

Objectives: The aim of this study is to analyse the adaptations of the autonomic nervous system after a musculoskeletal injury, obtained by measuring heart rate variability in athletes. It was hypothesized that there is an alteration in heart rate variability after a musculoskeletal injury. Study design: Cohort study. Subjects: 15 semi-professional soccer players from three football teams, aged between 21 and 33 (mean age: 29.4 ± 3.31 years), with a recent musculoskeletal injury. Methods: Heart rate variability was collected using the Polar m200 and the chest strap H10 in two moments: within 72 h after the injury and between 5 and 7 days after full return-to-play. Results: Results show differences between T1 and T2 (p ≤ 0.05) in low-frequency power (n.u.) (p = 0.001) and high-frequency power (n.u.) (p = 0.001), in low-frequency/high-frequency ratio (p = 0.001) and in high-frequency power (ms2) (p = 0.017) measures. No statistical differences were found in low-frequency power (ms2) (p = 0.233). The low frequency power (n.u.) was significantly lower after injury compared with LF power (n.u.) values after full return-to-play. In high-frequency power there was a significant difference between both moments with high values after injury. Conclusions: The use of heart rate variability therefore seems to be promising to detect an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system and help clinical departments to identify a possible non-traumatic musculoskeletal injury. Further research should be performed considering a wide range of musculoskeletal injuries and to establish baseline values of the athletes.

Pain is a common comorbidity in patients with hemophilia (PwH) due to hemophilic arthropathy. This study aims to explore pain sensitivity in PwH methodologically investigating in cuff pressure testing compared to algometer testing.

The interplay between the human microbiome and the musculoskeletal system represents a burgeoning field of research with profound implications for understanding and treating musculoskeletal disorders. This review articulates the pivotal role of the microbiome in modulating bone health, highlighting the gut-bone axis as a critical nexus for potential therapeutic intervention. Through a meticulous analysis of recent clinical research, we underscore the microbiome’s influence on osteoporosis, sarcopenia, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, delineating both the direct and indirect mechanisms by which microbiota could impact musculoskeletal integrity and function. Our investigation reveals novel insights into the microbiota’s contribution to bone density regulation, hormone production, immune modulation, and nutrient absorption, laying the groundwork for innovative microbiome-based strategies in musculoskeletal disease management. Significantly, we identify the challenges hindering the translation of research into clinical practice, including the limitations of current microbial sequencing techniques and the need for standardized methodologies in microbiome studies. Furthermore, we highlight promising directions for future research, particularly in the realm of personalized medicine, where the microbiome’s variability offers unique opportunities for tailored treatment approaches. This review sets a new agenda for leveraging gut microbiota in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, marking a pivotal step toward integrating microbiome science into clinical musculoskeletal care.

BACKGROUND: Extracorporeal shock wave therapy, as its potential benefits for various musculoskeletal diseases, has received widespread attention. Increasingly studies have demonstrated that it has excellent effects such as pain relief and functional recovery. However, bibliometric analysis in the domain of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for pain is relatively lacking. OBJECTIVE: To visually analyze the studies related to extracorporeal shock wave therapy for pain and to sort out the knowledge structure and explore its research status as well as hot trends in this field at home and abroad. METHODS: The publications related to extracorporeal shock wave therapy for pain from 2002 to 2022 in Web of Science Core Collection database and CNKI database were searched. Visual analysis using Citespace software was performed to produce the diagrams and interpret their meanings. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 2 101 studies were included. The number of documents issued showed a fluctuating upward trend and the United States and China had certain advantages in the number of documents issued. The issuing institutions are mainly universities and hospitals and the issuing authors mostly belonged to independent teams. The exchange between issuing institutions and authors needed to be strengthened and the degree of crossinstitutional and cross-regional cooperation was low. Keyword visual analysis indicated that extracorporeal shock wave therapy has been widely used in musculoskeletal diseases and further studies should focus on multidisciplinary in-depth study and observation of the clinical efficacy of combined therapy. The studies on the topic of extracorporeal shock wave therapy treating pain mainly focus on musculoskeletal diseases, including plantar fasciitis, scapulohumeral periarthritis, and tennis elbow. In recent years, combined treatment with ultrasound-guided injection therapy, traditional Chinese treatment techniques and expansion of new fields become research trends and hotspots of concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the safety, feasibility, and acceptability of physiotherapy (PT) combined with strength training using active video games (AVG) for older patients with musculoskeletal conditions. Sixteen patients underwent AVG + PT on day 1 and only conventional physiotherapy (CPT) on day 2. The AVG was conducted in 6 upper- and lower-limb training performed in standing position using Ring Fit Adventure (RFA) on Nintendo Switch. Outcome measured adverse events and deviant movements associated with the AVG as safety, execution rate of each AVG programme as feasibility, and questionnaires (4-point Likert scale) regarding enjoyment, motivation to continue, and feeling of efficacy as acceptability. The berg balance scale/functional independence measure indicated 45 ± 8/90 ± 16. No adverse events occurred. Some of deviant movements were observed that could be an injury risk, such as a slight forward movement during the stepping exercise. The execution rate for each AVG programme ranged from 81% to 100%. The categories of enjoyment, motivation to continue, and feeling of efficacy had >90% of positive responses (strongly agree, slightly agree) in AVG + PT, and enjoyment tended to be higher in AVG + PT than in CPT. Strength training using RFA was considered to be a safe and feasible exercise tool enough to be applicable as part of a rehabilitation programme in older patients with musculoskeletal conditions. However, should be supervised, at least during the introductory phase. It was also positively accepted by older adults, suggesting enhanced enjoyment. Active video games (AVG) training with Ring Fit Adventure (RFA) was found to be safe enough to be considered for application as part of a rehabilitation programme for older patients with musculoskeletal conditions, but should be supervised, at least during the introductory phase. AVG training comprising strength training with RFA was found to be a highly feasible exercise tool for rehabilitation in older patients with musculoskeletal conditions. Physiotherapy combined with AVG training using RFA was also well received, suggesting enhanced enjoyment for older patients with musculoskeletal conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a debilitating genetic disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of heterotopic ossification (HO) formation in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. FOP is caused by a missense mutation in the ACVR1 gene (activin A receptor type I), an important signaling receptor involved in endochondral ossification. The ACVR1R206H mutation induces increased downstream canonical SMAD-signaling and drives tissue-resident progenitor cells with osteogenic potential to participate in endochondral HO formation. In this article, we review aberrant ACVR1R206H signaling and the cells that give rise to HO in FOP. FOP mouse models and lineage tracing analyses have been used to provide strong evidence for tissue-resident mesenchymal cells as cellular contributors to HO. We assess how the underlying mutation in FOP disrupts muscle-specific dynamics during homeostasis and repair, with a focus on muscle-resident mesenchymal cells known as fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs). Accumulating research points to FAPs as a prominent HO progenitor population, with ACVR1R206H FAPs not only aberrantly differentiating into chondro-osteogenic lineages but creating a permissive environment for bone formation at the expense of muscle regeneration. We will further discuss the emerging role of ACVR1R206H FAPs in muscle regeneration and therapeutic targeting of these cells to reduce HO formation in FOP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An 81-year-old female was admitted to the Department of Internal Medicine with generalized weakness and arthralgia with a predilection to the spine and shoulder girdle, walking difficulty and mild memory loss of one week's duration. Symptomatology spontaneously resolved after two weeks of admission but recurred at follow-up along with a mixed disease impression, where an exhaustive list of diagnoses was ruled out. Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an aseptic inflammatory condition that may be diagnostically challenging, especially in patients with multiple comorbidities, and therefore, critical clinical thinking is imperative. Our case elucidated that the cornerstone of differential diagnosis and patient treatment is an excellent retrieval of medical history, in combination with reinforcement from the physical exam and radiological-laboratory work-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Previous research has systematically studied the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)-based interventions in managing both mental and physical symptoms of chronic disease including depression, stress-related mental disorders (SMD), and chronic pain that are common causes of sick leave. However, a systematic review focusing on the effectiveness of CBT in facilitating RTW is lacking. This study compiles research on utilizing CBT-based interventions for helping employees on sick leave return to work. Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCT) published between 1 January 1990 and 27 June 2022 were searched in MEDLINE, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library, Scopus, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and PubMed. The primary outcome variables included a return to work (RTW) measure and sickness absences. The secondary outcomes include psychological conditions (mental illness, stress, anxiety, and depression) and physical condition (working ability, fatigue, and physical function). Results: Thirty-four RCTs were included in the analysis. Fifteen RCTs with 1727 participants reported on sick leave. Results showed that participants who completed CBT intervention had reduced sick leave in days (mean reduction − 3.654; 95%CI − 5.253, − 2.046; p < 0.001) compared to the control group. Sixteen papers with 2298 participants reported that the intervention group RTW 1.5 days earlier (95%CI 1.019, 1.722; p < 0.05). CBT-based interventions were effective in managing fatigue, mental illness, and depression, and improving physical function while it showed no effects in managing stress, anxiety and working ability. Conclusions: The findings indicate that CBT-based interventions are effective in reducing the length of sick leave and facilitating the RTW of employees in the intervention group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Numerous people use computer mice for long hours, especially in offices. Mouse users reported various pains and discomfort. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to assess three types of most common mice (vertical, traditional, flat) in Iran in terms of their effects on carpal tunnel syndrome, hand discomfort, and usability. METHODS: The Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome questionnaire, the Cornell Hand Discomfort Questionnaire (CHDQ), System Usability Scale (SUS), and Workplace Ergonomic Risk Assessment (WERA) scores were used to assess vertical, traditional, and flat mice. In addition, the participant's hand position was analyzed by observation method. RESULTS: Most participants had medium carpal tunnel syndrome severity; however, flat mouse users had a higher score, and the difference between mice was insignificant (p > 0.05). Most mouse users felt discomfort in their small and ring fingers, and the type of mouse significantly affected thumb discomfort level. More flat users felt Pain in the different parts of their hands. The flat mouse has the least SUS score. There was a significant difference between the three mice regarding SUS scores (p < 0.05). WERA mean values were acceptable for numerous mice. Adopting neutral wrist postures was more common among vertical, flat, and traditional mouse users, respectively; however, the flat mouse users tended to bend their fingers. CONCLUSION: There are differences between vertical and traditional flat mice in terms of ergonomic indicators. Although more studies are needed, it seems that vertical mice are better in some indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous scientific papers have compared different treatment options in the management of myofascial pain syndrome. This study evaluated the efficacy of Extracorporeal ShockWave Treatment (ESWT) and mesotherapy in patients with Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) in terms of improvement in pain, functional capacity, and quality of life. A case–control study was conducted on 54 patients, who were randomized into 2 groups: group A, consisting of 27 patients, who were treated with 5 sessions of focal ESWT on a weekly basis; and group B, consisting of 27 patients, who underwent 5 sessions of mesotherapy with Thiocolchicoside fl 4 mg/2 mL and Mepivacaine fl 10 mg/1 mL on a weekly basis. Patients were evaluated at enrollment (T0), after 5 weeks, at the end of rehabilitation treatment (T1), and at a follow- up 30 days after the end of treatment (T2), by administering rating scales (Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) - Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) – Short Form-36 (SF-36)). The results showed that focal ESWT and Mesoterapy are two valid and effective treatment options in reducing algic symptoms and improving short- and long-term quality of life. However, the use of ESWTs, despite being mildly painful but tolerated, has been shown to be superior to mesotherapy in terms of pain reduction and increased functional capacity.

Introduction: In contemporary workplaces, individuals using sedentary workstations often remain seated for approximately two-thirds of their workday, with extended periods of sitting lasting at least 30 minutes uninterrupted. The widespread use of various types of chairs in professional settings and their significant impact on individual well-being necessitate this ergonomic study. Given that professionals spend a considerable portion of their day seated, it is imperative to understand the ergonomic characteristics of different chair types to promote a comfortable and supportive work environment. This study focuses on evaluating static, revolving, and wooden chairs to identify their strengths and weaknesses. Aim: To compare the ergonomic features of static, revolving, and wooden chairs among in professionals with prolonged sitting using Cornell’s Ergonomic Scale. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among professionals at a corporate company in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, from July 2021 to September 2022. Participants, regardless of gender, who had been using a laptop or desktop for at least four hours a day for a year were included. The study assessed three types of chairs: static, revolving, and wooden. The survey consisted of two sections: demographic and job-related information, and the Cornell Ergonomic Seating Evaluation v21 scale, which measured chair adjustment, seating comfort, ease of use, body support, and an overall ergonomic score. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0, employing one-way ANOVA. Result: A total of 217 participants were surveyed, including 182 males and 35 females. The overall Ergonomic Discomfort Score (EDS%) was 32.49±2.71% for static chairs, 66.3±3.56% for revolving chairs, and 25.26±3.27% for wooden chairs (p-value

OBJECTIVES: Limited knowledge exists about the association of lifting loads on a daily basis with physical and mental symptoms among warehouse workers. This study investigated associations between objectively measured lifting load and low-back pain (LBP), mental stress, and bodily fatigue after work and the following morning. METHODS: Warehouse workers (N=85) from the retail industry replied to daily questionnaires before and after work for 21 days about LBP intensity, mental stress, and bodily fatigue (outcome, all scales 0–10). We assessed lifting exposure using company records from the warehouse logistic systems on total lifting load (kg) per workday. Associations between variables were tested using linear mixed models with repeated measures controlling for relevant confounders. RESULTS: Mean daily lifting load was 1667.2 kg (range: 0–9998.4 kg). Compared to lifting 0–499 kg during a workday, lifting 500–1999 kg was associated with 0.59 points [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.10–1.08] elevated LBP intensity after work, while lifting ≥5000 showed a higher LBP intensity of 1.26 points (95% CI 0.48–2.03). LBP intensity remained elevated the following morning. Lifting ≥5000 kg was associated with higher mental stress after work of 0.74 points (95% CI 0.10–1.37), while no association was observed for bodily fatigue. CONCLUSIONS: Higher daily lifting loads were associated with higher LBP intensity after work and the following morning. These findings suggest that warehouses should consider the daily lifting loads when organizing warehouse work to prevent development of LBP, eg, using company records to provide a more equal distribution of daily lifting loads between workers.

Background: The process of the globally aging population has been accelerating, leading to an increasing social burden. As people age, the musculoskeletal system will gradually go through a series of degenerative and loss of function and eventually develop age-related musculoskeletal diseases, like sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis. On the other hand, several studies have shown that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) possess various important physiological functions on the health of muscles, bones, and joints. Objective: This narrative review paper provides a summary of the literature about the effects and mechanisms of PUFAs on age-related musculoskeletal diseases for the prevention and management of these diseases. Methods: Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus databases have been searched to select the relevant literature on epidemiological, cellular, and animal experiments and clinical evidence in recent decades with keywords “polyunsaturated fatty acids”, “PUFAs”, “omega-3”, “omega-6”, “musculoskeletal diseases”, “sarcopenia”, “osteoporosis”, “osteoarthritis”, and so on. Results: PUFAs could prevent and treat age-related musculoskeletal diseases (sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis) by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation and controlling the growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and autophagy of cells. This review paper provides comprehensive evidence of PUFAs on age-related musculoskeletal diseases, which will be helpful for exploitation into functional foods and drugs for their prevention and treatment. Conclusions: PUFAs could play an important role in the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis.

Objective The purpose of the study will be to evaluate the effect of pulmonary rehabilitation on the improvement of patients with post-COVID-19 musculoskeletal symptoms, as well as to quantify the impact of telemedicine that evaluates the evolution of pain, functionality, and quality of life. Methods We will carry out a case-control study in post-COVID-19 musculoskeletal symptoms patients who will undergo pulmonary rehabilitation, together with an intervention and a follow-up using programmed telemedicine sessions. Data will be collected on the improvement of functional capacity and quality of life, in addition to assessing the evolution of musculoskeletal symptomatology, as well as pain and psychological variables. The approaches of face-to-face rehabilitation and telerehabilitation will also be compared. The telemedicine sessions will improve user adherence and follow-up, and the results are expected to be disseminated to the scientific community during and after the end of the study.

The construction industry is associated with risks that can result in musculoskeletal diseases. Although young male workers who are presumed to be healthy dominate the industry in Tanzania, body pain complaints have been widely reported. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence and causes of body pains in workers. A cross-sectional study involving 396 workers was conducted. A chi square test was used for testing association of independent categorical variables and binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors for body pain complaints. The results show that all study participants complained of at least one form of body pain with back pain at 87.6%, shoulder pain at 62.9% and neck pain at 25.8%. Both sociodemographic factors as well as biomechanical risks factors were found to be determinants for pain in the neck and shoulder. However, none of the factors were found to be statistically significant for back pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article investigates the association between objectively measured daily lifting loads and low-back pain (LBP), mental stress, and bodily fatigue among warehouse workers in the retail industry. Topics include the impact of lifting loads on LBP intensity, mental stress, and bodily fatigue, emphasizing the need for a biopsychosocial approach in assessing occupational health risks and suggesting interventions based on objective measures from company records.

The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) and to determine whether differences regarding the employment status (standard and non-standard), according to gender, increased the probability of WRMDs. Cross-sectional study. Data from the 2019 National Health Survey (NHS) in Brazil were used. In total, 50,066 participants, both women and men, aged 18–65 years were included. Data were analysed for self-reported WRMDs. The binary logistic regression model, adjusting for possible covariables, was used to evaluate the association between working in the labour market and the occurrence of WRMDs. For covariates in the multivariate analysis, a P -value of <0.20 was considered in the univariate analysis. The variables with a P -value of <0.05 remained in the model. The odds ratio (OR), together with their confidence intervals at 95% (95% CI), were estimates both in the univariate and multivariate models. The prevalence of WRMDs was higher in women (4.2%) than men (1.9%). The likelihood of WRMDs was associated with the employment status only among men and proved to be lower for non-standard employment than standard employment (OR = 0.61; 95% CI = 0.43–0.87). Only among women, an increase in the likelihood of WRMDs associated with exposure to occupational noise was observed (OR = 1.77; 95% CI = 1.31–2.38) and a less favourable self-reported health (OR = 1.66; 95% CI = 1.08–2.54). Results showed higher change of WRMD for men and women associated with rheumatoid arthritis (men: OR = 3.94; 95% CI = 2.10–7.38; women: OR = 2.39; 95% CI = 1.68–3.39), depression (men: OR = 2.62; 95% CI = 1.54–4.45; women: OR = 2.39; 95% CI = 1.68–3.39) and occupational accidents (men: OR = 4.36; 95% CI = 2.34–8.14; women: OR = 2.20; 95% CI = 1.19–4.07). It is possible that the "double presence" that involves both the productive and reproductive spheres explains the higher prevalence of WRMDs among women Indicators that are sensitive to the effects of gender norms are necessary to understand the context of inequalities in the prevalence of WRMDs. The results of this study should be considered when developing strategies in the workplace and public health policies to reduce the prevalence of WRMDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The improvised and massive adoption of remote work in the context of COVID-19 has forced us to adapt homes as workspaces, which could promote development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This review explores the evidence for ergonomic factors associated with MSDs in teleworkers. Methods. A literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, SciELO and EBSCO. We included observational studies published between March 2020 and October 2021 that included teleworking personnel due to the restrictions of the pandemic. Results. A total of 212 studies were identified, 14 were chosen for complete review. Associated factors were change of work modality (on-site work to telework), use of home environments as workspaces (areas not adapted for work and with low lighting), working furniture (non-ergonomic chairs and desks), use of electronic devices (tablets, cell phones and laptops), organizational factors (working hours,active breaks, sitting time) and individual factors (physical activity practice). Conclusion. Various ergonomic home factors and the characteristics of teleworking - mainly furniture, the environment of work and physical activity - are associated with MSDs. This evidence suggests that the norms and regulation of telework can consider the adaptation of workspace and conditions at home to prevent health problems in the medium and long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Musculoskeletal injuries have significant importance within the field of equine health, mainly due to their economic and sporting implications in today's world. The tissues most affected by such injuries in horses include tendons, ligaments, and cartilage, all of which have a restricted ability to self-heal. This is where regenerative therapies arise, which involve the use of living cells and non-cell therapies to treat various diseases, injuries, and medical conditions and to restore the affected tissue to its native state, both structurally and functionally. Platelet-rich plasma and autologous conditioned serum are widely used in regenerative medicine. In the last few years, mesenchymal stem cells, a type of adult stem cell found in various tissues throughout the body, including bone marrow, adipose (fat) tissue, and the umbilical cord, have attracted attention for their therapeutic potential. These mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into various types of tissues, making them versatile agents for tissue regeneration. In addition, they have anti-inflammatory properties, crucial for mitigating the harmful effects of inflammation often associated with injuries, and immunomodulatory capabilities, which can help regulate the immune system response. Cell therapy therefore harnesses the power of MSCs to combat the challenges posed by musculoskeletal injuries in horses, offering hope for faster recovery and a return to peak performance. Musculoskeletal injuries in horses have a great economic impact, predominantly affecting tendons, ligaments, and cartilage, which have limited natural regeneration. Cell therapy, which uses mesenchymal stem cells due to their tissue differentiation properties and anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects, aims to restore damaged tissue. In this manuscript, we performed a systematic review using the Parsifal tool, searching the PubMed and Web of Science databases for articles on regenerative medicine for equine musculoskeletal injuries. Our review covers 17 experimental clinical studies categorized by the therapeutic approach used: platelet-rich plasma, conditioned autologous serum, mesenchymal stem cells, and secretome. These therapies reduce healing time, promote regeneration of fibrocartilaginous tissue, improve cellular organization, and improve joint functionality and sustainability. In conclusion, regenerative therapies using platelet-rich plasma, conditioned autologous serum, equine mesenchymal stem cells, and the emerging field of the secretome represent a promising and highly effective approach for the treatment of joint pathologies in horses, implying a valuable advance in equine healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the development and validation of a work-related risk score for upper-extremity musculoskeletal disorders (UEMSD) in a French working population. Topics discussed include the risk score's performance in diagnosing UEMSD, its calibration, discrimination, and potential application as a first-line risk assessment tool for preventive interventions by ergonomists.

Background: The number of total knee replacements performed annually is steadily increasing. Parallel options for postoperative care are decreasing, which reduces patient satisfaction. External devices to support physical rehabilitation and health monitoring will improve patient satisfaction and postoperative care. Methods: In a prospective, international multicenter study, patients were asked to use an external motion sensor and a smartphone application during the postoperative course of primary total knee arthroplasty. The collected data were transferred to a data platform, allowing for the real-time evaluation of patient data. Results: In three participating centers, 98 patients were included. The general acceptance of using the sensor and app was high, with an overall compliance in study participation rate of up to 76%. The early results showed a significant improvement in the overall quality of life (p < 0.001) and significant reductions in pain (p < 0.01) and depression (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The early results of this clinical and multicenter study emphasize that there is a high interest in and acceptance of digital solutions in patients' treatment pathways. Motion sensor and smartphone applications support patients in early rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare metabolic bone disorder characterized by low levels of tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) that causes under-mineralization of the bone, leading to bone deformity and fractures. In addition, patients often present with chronic muscle pain, reduced muscle strength, and an altered gait. In this work, we explored dynamic muscle function in a homozygous TNAP knockout mouse model of severe juvenile onset HPP. We found a reduction in skeletal muscle size and impairment in a range of isolated muscle contractile properties. Using histological methods, we found that the structure of HPP muscles was similar to healthy muscles in fiber size, actin and myosin structures, as well as the α-tubulin and mitochondria networks. However, HPP mice had significantly fewer embryonic and type I fibers than wild type mice, and fewer metabolically active NADH+ muscle fibers. We then used oxygen respirometry to evaluate mitochondrial function and found that complex I and complex II leak respiration were reduced in HPP mice, but that there was no disruption in efficiency of electron transport in complex I or complex II. In summary, the severe HPP mouse model recapitulates the muscle strength impairment phenotypes observed in human patients. Further exploration of the role of alkaline phosphatase in skeletal muscle could provide insight into mechanisms of muscle weakness in HPP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on evaluating the effectiveness of motivational interviewing (MI). Topics include MI consisted of two MI sessions while the active control involved two sessions without MI, both were offered in addition to usual case management; and MI in this context could be challenging as only half of the MI group received the intervention.

Objective The purpose of the study will be to evaluate the effect of pulmonary rehabilitation on the improvement of patients with post-COVID-19 musculoskeletal symptoms, as well as to quantify the impact of telemedicine that evaluates the evolution of pain, functionality, and quality of life. Methods We will carry out a case-control study in post-COVID-19 musculoskeletal symptoms patients who will undergo pulmonary rehabilitation, together with an intervention and a follow-up using programmed telemedicine sessions. Data will be collected on the improvement of functional capacity and quality of life, in addition to assessing the evolution of musculoskeletal symptomatology, as well as pain and psychological variables. The approaches of face-to-face rehabilitation and telerehabilitation will also be compared. The telemedicine sessions will improve user adherence and follow-up, and the results are expected to be disseminated to the scientific community during and after the end of the study.

Objective To examine activities of daily living (ADL) and physical activity in older adults with heart failure admitted to a rehabilitation ward for subacute musculoskeletal disease. Methods This study included patients with musculoskeletal disease (aged ≥75 years) who were admitted to the rehabilitation ward. Data on age, ADL, and time for physical activity (metabolic equivalents [METs]) were collected. Patients were divided into groups with or without heart failure, and the differences were compared using Mann–Whitney U-test. Results This study included 84 musculoskeletal patients, including 25 with heart failure. The heart-failure group had similar levels of ADL independence compared to the without-heart-failure group (p=0.28) but had shorter duration of continuous and sustained physical activities and less total time (p

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of motivational interviewing (MI) – a counselling approach offered by caseworkers at the Norwegian Labor and Welfare Administration (NAV) – on return to work (RTW) for individuals sick-listed for ≥8 weeks due to any diagnoses. MI was compared to usual case management and an active control during 12 months of follow-up. METHODS: In a randomized clinical trial with three parallel arms, participants were randomized to MI (N=257), usual case management (N=266), or an active control group (N=252). MI consisted of two MI sessions while the active control involved two sessions without MI, both were offered in addition to usual case management. The primary outcome was number of sickness absence days based on registry data. Secondary outcomes included time to sustainable RTW, defined as four consecutive weeks without medical benefits. RESULTS: The median number of sickness absence days for the MI group was 73 days [interquartile range (IQR) 31–147], 76 days (35–134) for usual care, and 75 days (34–155) for active control. In total 89%, 88% and 86% of the participants, respectively, achieved sustainable RTW. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for time to sustainable RTW was 1.12 (95% CI 0.90–1.40) for MI compared to usual case management and HR 1.16 (95% CI 0.93–1.44) compared to the active control. CONCLUSIONS: This study did not provide evidence that MI offered by NAV caseworkers to sick-listed individuals was more effective on RTW than usual case management or an active control. Providing MI in this context could be challenging as only half of the MI group received the intervention.

Abstract Background Surgery involving implantable devices is widely used to solve several health issues. National registries are essential tools for implantable device surveillance and vigilance. In 2017, the European Union encouraged Member States to establish “registries and databanks for specific types of devices” to evaluate device safety and performance and ensure their traceability. Spine-implantable devices significantly impact patient safety and public health; spine registries might help improve surgical outcomes. This study aimed to map existing national spine surgery registries and highlight their features and organisational standards to provide an essential reference for establishing other national registries. Methods A scoping search was performed using the Embase, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for the terms “registry”, “register”, “implantable”, and all terms and synonyms related to spinal diseases and national registries in publications from January 2000 to December 2020. This search was later updated and finalised through a web search and an ad hoc survey to collect further detailed information. Results Sixty-two peer-reviewed articles were included, which were related to seven national spine registries, six of which were currently active. Three additional active national registries were found through the web search. The nine selected national registries were set up between 1998 and 2021. They collect data on the procedure and use patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for the follow-up. Conclusion Our study identified nine currently active national spine surgery registries. However, globally accepted standards for developing a national registry of spine surgery are yet to be established. Therefore, an international effort to increase result comparability across registries is highly advisable. We hope the recent initiative from the Orthopaedic Data Evaluation Panel (ODEP) to establish an international collaboration will meet these needs.

IntroductionWork-related musculoskeletal disease (MSD) is the second leading cause of disability globally. Ophthalmologists widely report MSDs in the neck (70%) and back pain (40-80%). Our study intended to identify the prevalence of MSDs among pediatric ophthalmologists.MethodsPediatric ophthalmologists self-reported chronic pain, instrumentation used, years practiced, surgeries performed, work schedule/environment modifications due to MSD, and treatment for MSD via an anonymous online survey. Statistical analysis of responses included odds ratios, Pearson chi-square testing, and Spearman correlations.ResultsThis study had 101 respondents, with 66% reporting chronic pain. Chronic neck pain (41%) and lower back pain (31%) followed by shoulder pain (30%) were the leading MSD complaints and significantly correlated with years of experience (p

Introduction: In contemporary workplaces, individuals using sedentary workstations often remain seated for approximately two-thirds of their workday, with extended periods of sitting lasting at least 30 minutes uninterrupted. The widespread use of various types of chairs in professional settings and their significant impact on individual well-being necessitate this ergonomic study. Given that professionals spend a considerable portion of their day seated, it is imperative to understand the ergonomic characteristics of different chair types to promote a comfortable and supportive work environment. This study focuses on evaluating static, revolving, and wooden chairs to identify their strengths and weaknesses. Aim: To compare the ergonomic features of static, revolving, and wooden chairs among in professionals with prolonged sitting using Cornell's Ergonomic Scale. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among professionals at a corporate company in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, from July 2021 to September 2022. Participants, regardless of gender, who had been using a laptop or desktop for at least four hours a day for a year were included. The study assessed three types of chairs: static, revolving, and wooden. The survey consisted of two sections: demographic and job-related information, and the Cornell Ergonomic Seating Evaluation v21 scale, which measured chair adjustment, seating comfort, ease of use, body support, and an overall ergonomic score. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0, employing one-way ANOVA. Result: A total of 217 participants were surveyed, including 182 males and 35 females. The overall Ergonomic Discomfort Score (EDS%) was 32.49±2.71% for static chairs, 66.3±3.56% for revolving chairs, and 25.26±3.27% for wooden chairs (p-value <0.001). Conclusion: The application of practical ergonomic principles with tools such as the Cornell scale can effectively minimise employee discomfort and enhance both work capacity and job satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the fact that Toxoplasma is a common parasite of humans and Toxoplasma bradyzoites can reside in skeletal muscle, T. gondii-mediated immune responses may modulate the progression and pathophysiology of another musculoskeletal disorder, osteoporosis. In the current study, we investigated the association of bone health and Toxoplasma gondii infection status. A total of 138 patients living in Germany with either osteopenia or osteoporosis were included in the study, and they were categorized into two groups, T. gondii uninfected (n = 74) and infected (n = 64), based on the presence of T. gondii-specific IgG antibodies. The demographic and clinical details of the study subjects were collected from the medical records. Logistic regression analysis was performed to delineate the association of bone health parameters with the infection status. The prevalence of toxoplasmosis was 46.4% in the study participants. The infected individuals with osteopenia and osteoporosis showed higher levels of mean spine and femoral T score, Z score, and bone mineral density (BMD), indicating improved bone health compared to the uninfected group. Logistic regression analysis showed that subjects with T. gondii infection displayed increased odds of having a higher mean femur T score, femur BMD, and femur Z score even after adjusting for age, creatinine, and urea levels. However, when the duration of drug intake for osteoporosis was taken into account, the association lost statistical significance. In summary, in this study, an improvement in osteopenia and osteoporosis was observed in Toxoplasma-infected patients, which may be partly due to the longer duration of drug intake for osteoporosis in the infected patient group.