E-health intervention for preventing recurrent ankle sprains: a randomised controlled trial in general practice

BACKGROUND

Ankle sprains are frequent injuries in general practice. However, no effective treatment is available yet.

AIM

To examine the effectiveness of an unsupervised e-health-supported neuromuscular training programme in combination with usual care compared with usual care alone in patients with acute lateral ankle sprains in general practice.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Randomised controlled trial with 1-year follow-up among patients (14-65 years) who visited the GP with an acute lateral ankle sprain within 3 weeks of injury.

METHOD

The intervention group received, in addition to usual care, an unsupervised e-health-supported neuromuscular training programme and the control group received usual care alone. The primary outcome was self-reported re-sprains during 52 weeks of follow-up. Secondary outcomes were ankle function, pain in rest and during activity, subjective recovery, and return to the same type and level of sport.

RESULTS

In total, 165 participants (mean age 38.3 years and 69 [41.8%] male) were included. No statistically significant difference in the occurrence of a re-sprain were found between the intervention 20.7% (17/82) and control group 24.1% (20/83) (hazard ratio 1.14, 95% confidence interval = 0.59 to 2.21). Also, no statistically significant differences in secondary outcomes were found between groups. The adherence rate to the programme was low (6.1%, 5/82).

CONCLUSION

The rate of re-sprains was relatively high and an unsupervised e-health-supported neuromuscular training programme does not yield meaningful effects and does not encourage adherence in preventing re-sprains in patients in general practice. More research is necessary to indicate the best treatment modality and way of delivery for these patients.

Association between hip pain and radiographic hip osteoarthritis in primary care: the CHECK cohort

BACKGROUND

The diagnosis of hip osteoarthritis (OA) is often based on clinical symptoms, such as pain and stiffness, and radiographic features. However, the association between hip pain and hip radiographic OA (ROA) remains uncertain.

AIM

To examine the association between hip pain and hip ROA.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Cross-sectional analysis of a Dutch cohort, the Cohort Hip and Cohort Knee (CHECK) study.

METHOD

The participants (aged 45-65 years) had all experienced hip and/or knee pain for which they had not had a prior consultation or were within 6 months of their first consultation with a GP. Using weight-bearing anteroposterior pelvis radiographs, definite and early-stage hip ROA were defined as Kellgren and Lawrence grade ≥2 and ≥1, respectively. Presence of ROA and pain was assessed in the hips of all participants. The association between hip pain and ROA was assessed using generalised estimating equations.

RESULTS

The prevalence of definite ROA was 11.0% (n = 218/1982 hips), with prevalence in painful and pain-free hips of 13.3% (n = 105/789) and 9.5% (n = 113/1193), respectively. Prevalence of early-stage hip ROA was 35.3% (n = 700/1982), with prevalence in painful and pain-free hips of 41.2% (n = 325/789) and 31.4% (n = 375/1193), respectively. Compared with pain-free hips, the odds ratio painful hips was 1.51 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.16 to 1.98) for definite ROA and 1.47 (95% CI = 1.24 to 1.75) for early-stage ROA.

CONCLUSION

Hip pain was associated with definite and early-stage hip ROA, yet the overall ROA prevalence was modest and the prevalence among pain-free hips was substantial. Therefore, radiographs provided little assistance with help to identify patients with hip OA among patients who recently presented with hip or knee complaints.

Higher risk of knee arthroplasty during ten-year follow-up if baseline radiographic osteoarthritis involves the patellofemoral joint: a CHECK Cohort Study

Background

Patellofemoral OA is a strong risk factor for progression to generalized whole knee OA, but it is unknown whether involvement of the patellofemoral joint in early radiographic OA (ROA) is associated with risk of undergoing future knee arthroplasty. This is clinically relevant because patellofemoral OA likely requires a different treatment approach than tibiofemoral OA, and identifying prognostic factors for future arthroplasty might assist clinicians with prioritizing and guiding early interventions that could improve long-term outcomes. Therefore, we evaluated association of baseline patellofemoral or tibiofemoral ROA with undergoing knee arthroplasty over 10 years.

Methods

Using the multicenter Cohort Hip and Cohort Knee (CHECK) study, we acquired three views of radiographs in both knees of individuals aged 45–65 years with complaints of knee symptoms in at least one knee. From baseline radiographs, we categorized each knee as having one of four patterns of ROA: no ROA, isolated patellofemoral ROA, isolated tibiofemoral ROA, or combined ROA. We evaluated the 10-year relative hazard for undergoing going arthroplasty, based on baseline ROA pattern, using Cox proportional hazard models, adjusting for age, sex body mass index, and pain severity.

Result

Our sample (n = 842) included 671 (80%) women and had mean (SD) age 56 (5) years, and BMI 26.3 (4.0) kg/m². Arthroplasties were undertaken in 44/1678 knees. In comparison to having no ROA at baseline, adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) for arthroplasty were highest for combined ROA (aHR 14.2 [95% CI 5.8, 34.6]) and isolated patellofemoral ROA (aHR 12.7 [5.6, 29.0]). Isolated tibiofemoral ROA was not significantly associated with arthroplasty (aHR 2.9 [0.6, 13.6]).

Conclusions

In a sample of middle-aged individuals with complaints in one or both knees, the 10-year relative hazard for undergoing arthroplasty, compared to no ROA, was increased when OA involved the patellofemoral joint, regardless of whether it was isolated to the patellofemoral joint or occurred in combination with tibiofemoral OA. Further research is needed to confirm this association and to clarify the causal mechanism of this relationship. However, our results provide preliminary evidence that identifying patellofemoral ROA may be a clinically useful prognostic indicator in early knee OA.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-022-05549-6.

Can we predict which patients with plantar heel pain are more likely to benefit from insoles? A secondary exploratory analysis of a randomized controlled trial

Background

Plantar heel pain (PHP) is a common cause of foot complaints, for which treatment with custom-made insoles is frequently applied. So far few studies have investigated patient characteristics that predict response to these treatments. The aim of this secondary exploratory analysis was twofold; firstly, to identify patient characteristics that predict prognosis in patients with PHP treated with insoles, and secondly to identify characteristics that might interact with treatment with insoles.

Methods

Data from a randomized trial in which participants received either custom insoles (N = 70) or sham insoles (N = 69) were used. At baseline, information was collected on demographics, foot symptoms, foot and ankle range of motion, navicular drop, presence of neuropathic pain, physical activity and other illnesses in the last 12 months. The primary outcome of this study was the Foot Function Index score (FFI) at 26 weeks. Multivariable linear regression models were generated to identify patients characteristics that predict the outcome for each type of intervention (i.e. insoles and GP-led usual care).

Results

We found two variables associated with a better function score at 26 weeks in patients treated with insoles, female sex (β − 9.59 95%CI -17.87; − 1.31) and a lower FFI score at baseline (β 0.56 95%CI 0.30; 0.82). Explorative analyses in patients treated with insoles showed no significant interaction effects between the type of insole (custom-made versus sham) and any of the potential predictive factors.

Conclusion

When communicating about the effect of insoles for PHP clinicians should take sex and the amount of pain and disability at first presentation into account. Women and people with better foot function scores at baseline (according to FFI) might respond better to treatment with insoles in terms of foot function.

Trial registration

Trial registration: NTR5346.

ACL reconstruction for all is not cost-effective after acute ACL rupture

OBJECTIVES

To conduct a cost-utility analysis for two commonly used treatment strategies for patients after ACL rupture; early ACL reconstruction (index) versus rehabilitation plus an optional reconstruction in case of persistent instability (comparator).

METHODS

Patients aged between 18 and 65 years of age with a recent ACL rupture (<2 months) were randomised between either an early ACL reconstruction (index) or a rehabilitation plus an optional reconstruction in case of persistent instability (comparator) after 3 months of rehabilitation. A cost-utility analysis was performed to compare both treatments over a 2-year follow-up. Cost-effectiveness was calculated as incremental costs per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained, using two perspectives: the healthcare system perspective and societal perspective. The uncertainty for costs and health effects was assessed by means of non-parametric bootstrapping.

RESULTS

A total of 167 patients were included in the study, of which 85 were randomised to the early ACL reconstruction (index) group and 82 to the rehabilitation and optional reconstruction group (comparator). From the healthcare perspective it takes 48 460 € and from a societal perspective 78 179 €, to gain a QALY when performing early surgery compared with rehabilitation plus an optional reconstruction. This is unlikely to be cost-effective.

CONCLUSION

Routine early ACL reconstruction (index) is not considered cost-effective as compared with rehabilitation plus optional reconstruction for a standard ACL population (comparator) given the maximum willingness to pay of 20 000 €/QALY. Early recognition of the patients that have better outcome of early ACL reconstruction might make rehabilitation and optional reconstruction even more cost-effective.

Kellgren & Lawrence grading in cohort studies: methodological update and implications illustrated using data from the CHECK cohort

Objective

The Cohort Hip and Cohort Knee (CHECK) is a cohort of middle‐aged individuals with hip or knee pain. Radiographs were assigned Kellgren/Lawrence (K/L) scores under different conditions at each follow‐up visit for 10 years. We aimed to describe and consolidate each scoring approach, then illustrate implications of their use by comparing baseline K/L scores assigned using 2 of these approaches, and evaluating their respective associations with joint replacement and incident radiographic osteoarthritis (ROA).

Methods

We compared baseline K/L scores assigned to hips and knees using 2 scoring approaches: 1) assigned by senior researchers to baseline images alone and 2) assigned by trained readers, with images read paired and in known sequence with up to 10 years of follow‐up radiographs (Poisson regression). We evaluated the associations of baseline ROA (any: K/L grade ≥1; established: K/L ≥2) with joint replacement, and of K/L 1 joints with incident established ROA (survival analysis).

Results

Of 1,002 participants (79% women, mean ± SD age 55.9 ± 5.2 years, body mass index 26.2 ± 4.0 kg/m²), the second scoring approach had 2.4 times (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.8–3.1 for knees) and 2.9 times (95% CI 2.3–3.7 for hips) higher prevalence of established ROA than the first approach. Established hip ROA had a higher risk of joint replacement using the first approach (hazard ratio [HR] 24.2 [95% CI 15.0–39.8] versus second approach HR 7.7 [95% CI 4.9–12.1]), as did knees (HR 19.3 [95% CI 10.3–36.1] versus second approach HR 4.8 [95% CI 2.4–9.6]). The risk of incident ROA did not differ by approach.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that evaluating ROA prevalence and predicting outcomes depends on the scoring approach.

The association of BMI and physical activity on acetabular dysplasia in children

BACKGROUND

Acetabular dysplasia is an important pre-disposing factor for osteoarthritis of the hip. However, it is not completely known how acetabular dysplasia develops during childhood.

OBJECTIVE

To study the prevalence of acetabular dysplasia and its association with body mass index (BMI) and physical activity in 9 year old children.

DESIGN

The population for this cross-sectional study was drawn from the ongoing prospective cohort study: Generation R. 9,778 mothers with a delivery date from March 2002 until January 2006 were enrolled. In a random subgroup of these children Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanning was performed at age 9.

EXPOSURES

BMI, standardized for the Dutch population and categorized in four groups based on extended international Obesity Task Force cut-offs: underweight, normal, overweight and obesity. Physical activity was based on time spent on playing outdoors, playing sports and walking/cycling to school.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The degree of acetabular dysplasia was determined with the centre-edge angle (CEA) and acetabular depth-width ratio (ADR) in DXA images of the hip.

RESULTS

1,188 DXA images of children's hips were available for analysis. The median age of the children was 9.86 years. Prevalence of dysplasia and mild dysplasia was respectively 6.3%; 25.6% with CEA and 4.8%; 25.0% with ADR. BMI was negatively associated with mild dysplasia (OR 0.80 CI 0.71-0.90). Obese children showed less mild dysplasia compared to normal children (OR 0.48 CI 0.24-0.97) in unadjusted analysis. Physical activity represented by walking to school showed a statistically significant negative association with mild dysplasia (OR 0.87 CI 0.76-0.99). After adjustment for age, ethnicity, sex, first born, breech presentation, birthweight, gestational age and Caesarean section, the patterns of association with dysplasia remained for both BMI and physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, being overweight and light physical activity were negatively associated with the development of (mild) acetabular dysplasia at the age of 9 years.

Health Problems in Conservatoire Students: A Retrospective Study Focusing on Playing-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Mental Health

OBJECTIVE

To gain insight into the prevalence and characteristics of physical health problems and mental health problems in first-, second- and third-year conservatoire students of the classical music department. Also, differences in mental health and general health were investigated between students with playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) and students without PRMDs.

METHODS

Eighty-nine classical music students of Codarts Rotterdam, University of the Arts, were asked to complete a questionnaire targeting PRMDs (components derived from Musculoskeletal Pain Intensity and Interference Questionnaire for Musicians, MPIIQM), mental health (Mental Health Inventory-5), and self-rated general health (SF-1 from Short Form health survey SF-12).

RESULTS

The response rate was 52% (n=46). Of all participants, 17.8% (n=8) had experienced PRMDs in the past 12 months and 45.7% (n=21) of the students reported poor mental health (MHI-5≤60). Students experiencing PRMDs in the past 12 months reported poorer general health compared to students without PRMDs (43.8 vs 67.1 [range 0-100], p=0.012). No significant difference was found between the groups with regard to mental health (62.0 vs 66.5 [range 0-100], p=0.522).

CONCLUSION

The burden of PRMD complaints in this population of conservatoire students seems relatively low. However, the number of students facing mental problems in this population is a cause for concern. Conservatoires should focus on the subject of mental health in their curricula to increase more awareness and prevent mental problems. To investigate possible causality between PRMDs and general health, prospective studies are needed.

Effect of vitamin D supplementation on pain and physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA): an OA Trial Bank protocol for a systematic review and individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Observational data suggest that vitamin D deficiency is associated with the onset and progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to date investigating the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in knee OA have reported conflicting results. Further research is needed to clarify the effects of vitamin D on patient-reported outcomes and determine whether there are patient subgroups who may benefit from the supplementation. The aim of this individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis is to identify patient-level predictors of treatment response to vitamin D supplementation on pain and physical function.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A systematic literature search will be conducted for RCTs of vitamin D supplementation on knee OA. Authors of original RCTs will be contacted to obtain the IPD. The primary outcomes will include long-term (≥12 months) pain and physical function. Secondary outcomes will include medium-term (≥6 months and <12 months) and short-term (<6 months) pain and physical function, as well as patient global assessment, quality of life and adverse events. Potential treatment effect modifiers to be examined in the subgroup analyses include age, gender, body mass index, baseline knee pain severity and physical function, baseline vitamin D level, radiographic stage, presence of bone marrow lesions on MRI, presence of clinical signs of local inflammation and concomitant depressive symptoms. Both one-step and two-step modelling methods will be used to determine the possible modifiable effect of each subgroup of interest.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Research ethical or governance approval is exempt for this study as no new data are being collected. This study will be the first IPD meta-analysis to clarify the effect of vitamin D supplementation on clinical symptoms in different subgroups of patients with knee OA. The findings will be disseminated through peer-review publications and conference presentations.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42018107740.

Osteoarthritis year in review 2018: biomarkers (biochemical markers)

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this narrative review is to summarize important findings from biochemical marker studies relevant to osteoarthritis (OA) in the context of new discoveries and clinical and scientific need.

DESIGN

We conducted a systematic search of electronic medical databases (Embase, Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane central) between 01-03-2017 and 31-03-2018. The search was restricted to human studies, English language and full text available publications while reviews were excluded. Only papers describing protein based biomarkers measured in human body fluids (blood, urine and synovial fluid (SF)) were included. Of the 992 papers, 86 were reviewed here, with inclusion primarily based on relevance to OA biochemical markers.

RESULTS

This review highlights a selection of studies based on their quality and perceived importance to the field mainly including those that¹ evaluate prognostic value of biomarkers for OA progression (i.e., biomarkers reflecting change in composition of joint tissues and biomarkers of inflammation)², help in assessment of intervention efficacy, and³ are innovative and uncover new candidate biomarkers, or use new approaches in biomarker discovery.

CONCLUSIONS

Key findings and implications for possible clinical utility of biochemical markers are summarized and discussed. Given the paucity of robust biomarkers within the field, and the heterogeneity of the condition, enormous works are needed for development and validation of novel and clinically applicable biomarkers to reduce the impact of this highly prevalent and debilitating condition.

Does MRI add value in general practice for patients with traumatic knee complaints? A 1-year randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether referral to MRI by the general practitioner (GP) is non-inferior to usual care (no access to MRI by GPs) in patients with traumatic knee complaints regarding knee-related daily function.

METHODS

This was a multicentre, non-inferiority randomised controlled trial with 1-year follow-up. GPs invited eligible patients during or after their consultation. Eligible patients (18-45 years) consulted a GP with knee complaints due to a trauma during the previous 6 months. Patients allocated to the MRI group received an MRI at (median) 7 (IQR 1-33) days after the baseline questionnaire. Patients in the usual care group received information on the course of knee complaints, and a referral to a physiotherapist or orthopaedic surgeon when indicated. The primary outcome measure was knee-related daily function measured with the Lysholm scale (0 to 100; 100=excellent function) over 1 year, with a non-inferiority margin of 6 points.

RESULTS

A total of 356 patients were included and randomised to MRI (n=179) or usual care (n=177) from November 2012 to December 2015. MRI was non-inferior to usual care concerning knee-related daily function during 1-year follow-up, for the intention-to-treat (overall adjusted estimate: 0.33; 95% CI -1.73 to 2.39) and per-protocol (overall adjusted estimate: 0.06; 95% CI -2.08 to 2.19) analysis. There were no differences between both groups in the amount of patients visiting other healthcare providers.

CONCLUSION

MRI in general practice in patients with traumatic knee complaints was non-inferior to usual care regarding knee-related daily function during 1-year follow-up.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NTR3689.

Development of a prediction model for future risk of radiographic hip osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

To develop and validate a prognostic model for incident radiologic hip osteoarthritis (HOA) and determine the value of previously identified predictive factors.

DESIGN

We first validated previously reported predictive factors for HOA by performing univariate and multivariate analyses for all predictors in three large prospective cohorts (total sample size of 4548 with 653 incident cases). The prognostic model was developed in 2327 individuals followed for 10 years from the Rotterdam Study-I (RS-I) cohort. External validation of the model was tested on discrimination in two other cohorts: RS-II (n = 1435) and the Cohort Hip and Cohort Knee (CHECK) study (n = 786).

RESULTS

From the total number of 28 previously reported predictive factors, we were able to replicate 13 factors, while 15 factors were not significantly predictive in a meta-analysis of the three cohorts. The basic model including the demographic, questionnaire, and clinical examination variables (area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) = 0.67) or genetic markers (AUC = 0.55) or urinary C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type II collagen (uCTX-II) levels (AUC = 0.67) alone were poor predictors of HOA in all cohorts. Imaging factors showed the highest predictive value for the development of HOA (AUC = 0.74). Addition of imaging variables to the basic model led to substantial improvement in the discriminative ability of the model (AUC = 0.78) compared with uCTX-II (AUC = 0.74) or genetic markers (AUC = 0.68). Applying external validation, similar results were observed in the RS-II and the CHECK cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

The developed prediction model included demographic, a limited number of questionnaire, and imaging risk factors seems promising for prediction of HOA.

Preventing running-related injuries using evidence-based online advice: the design of a randomised-controlled trial

Introduction

Running-related injuries (RRIs) are frequent and can lead to cessation of health promoting activities. Several risk factors for RRIs have been identified. However, no successful injury prevention programme has been developed so far. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of an evidence-based online injury prevention programme on the number of RRIs.

Methods and analysis

The INSPIRE trial is a randomised-controlled trial with a 3-month follow-up. Both novice and more experienced runners, aged 18 years and older, who register for a running event (distances 5 km up to 42.195 km) will be asked to participate in this study. After completing the baseline questionnaire, participants will be randomised into either the intervention group or control group. Participants in the intervention group will get access to the online injury prevention programme. This prevention programme consists of information on evidence-based risk factors and advices to reduce the injury risk. The primary outcome measure is the number of self-reported RRIs in the time frame between registration for a running event and 1 month after the running event. Secondary outcome measures include the running days missed due to injuries, absence of work or school due to injuries, and the injury location.

Ethics and dissemination

An exemption for a comprehensive application is obtained by the Medical Ethical Committee of the Erasmus University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Netherlands. The results of the study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented on international congresses.

Trial registration number

NTR5998. Pre-results

Long-term effects of a randomized, controlled, tailor-made weight-loss intervention in primary care on the health and lifestyle of overweight and obese women

BACKGROUND

Maintenance of weight loss after a diet and exercise intervention is often low. Moreover, short follow-up periods and high attrition rates often impede translation of study results to clinical practice.

OBJECTIVE

The present study evaluated the long-term effectiveness of a randomized, tailor-made lifestyle intervention, consisting of diet and exercise, on the health and lifestyle of overweight, middle-aged women in primary care.

DESIGN

The intervention was part of a randomized controlled trial on the prevention of knee osteoarthritis [PROOF (PRevention of knee Osteoarthritis in Overweight Females) study]. The intervention lasted 2.5 y and consisted of visits to the dietitian and participation in physical activity classes, supervised by a physiotherapist. The outcome of main interest of the present study was weight change (in kg) 6-7 y after randomization. Additionally, the intervention's effect on change in physical activity was investigated.

RESULTS

After 6 mo, weight loss was significantly higher in the intervention group (adjusted difference: 1.34 kg; 95% CI: 0.46, 2.22 kg). Over time, this difference decreased and became nonsignificant after 24 mo. Per-protocol analyses showed similar results. After 6 mo, change in physical activity was significantly higher in the intervention group (15.2%; 95% CI: 28.6%, 1.7%). Over time, this difference increased up to 29.8% (95% CI: 2.3%, 57.2%) after 6.6 y of follow-up. Per-protocol analyses showed no significant differences in change in physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

A long-lasting intervention effect on change in physical activity was found, which increased over time. For weight change, smaller differences were found, which decreased over time. In future research, greater intervention effects on weight change are expected when higher compliance rates can be reached. The present study provides important recommendations for future research. The PROOF study was registered at http://www.isrctn.com as ISRCTN42823086.

The STAP-study: The (cost) effectiveness of custom made orthotic insoles in the treatment for plantar fasciopathy in general practice and sports medicine: design of a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Plantar fasciopathy is a common cause of foot pain, accounting for 11 to 15% of all foot symptoms requiring professional care in adults. Although many patients have complete resolution of symptoms within 12 months, many patients wish to reduce this period as much as possible. Orthotic devices are a frequently applied option of treatment in daily practice, despite a lack of evidence on the effectiveness. Therefore, the objective is to study the (cost)-effectiveness of custom made insoles by a podiatrist, compared to placebo insoles and usual care in patients with plantar fasciopathy in general practice and sports medicine clinics.

METHOD/DESIGN

This study is a multi-center three-armed participant and assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial with 6-months follow-up. Patients with plantar fasciopathy, with a minimum duration of complaints of 2 weeks and aged between 18 and 65, who visit their general practitioner or sport physician are eligible for inclusion. A total of 185 patients will be randomized into three parallel groups. One group will receive usual care by the general practitioner or sports physician alone, one group will be referred to a podiatrist and will receive a custom made insole, and one group will be referred to a podiatrist and will receive a placebo insole. The primary outcome will be the change from baseline to 12 weeks follow-up in pain severity at rest and during activity on a 0-10 numerical rating scale (NRS). Secondary outcomes include foot function (according to the Foot Function Index) at 6, 12 and 26 weeks, recovery (7-point Likert) at 6, 12 and 26 weeks, pain at rest and during activity (NRS) at 6 and 26 weeks and cost-effectiveness of the intervention at 26-weeks. Measurements will take place at baseline and at, 2, 4, 6, 12 and 26 weeks of follow-up.

DISCUSSION

The treatment of plantar fasciopathy is a challenge for health care professionals. Orthotic devices are frequently applied, despite a lack of evidence of the effectiveness on patient reported outcome. The results of this randomized controlled trial will improve the evidence base for treating this troublesome condition in daily practice.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Dutch Trial Registration: NTR5346 . Date of registration: August 5(th) 2015.

Balneotherapy (or spa therapy) for rheumatoid arthritis. An abridged version of Cochrane Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) include pharmacological interventions, physical therapy treatments and balneotherapy.

AIM

To evaluate the benefits and harms of balneotherapy in patients with RA.

DESIGN

A systematic review.

POPULATION

Studies were eligible if they were randomised controlled trials consisting of participants with definitive or classical RA.

METHODS

We searched various databases up to December 2014. Balneotherapy had to be the intervention under study, and had to be compared with another intervention or with no intervention. We considered pain, improvement, disability, tender joints, swollen joints and adverse events among the main outcome measures. We excluded studies when only laboratory variables were reported as outcome measures. Two review authors independently selected trials, performed data extraction and assessed risk of bias.

RESULTS

This review includes nine studies involving 579 participants. Most studies showed an unclear risk of bias in most domains. We found no statistically significant differences on pain or improvement between mudpacks versus placebo (1 study; N.=45; hand RA; very low level of evidence). As for the effectiveness of additional radon in carbon dioxide baths, we found no statistically significant differences between groups for all outcomes at three-month follow-up (2 studies; N.=194; low to moderate level of evidence). We noted some benefit of additional radon at six months in pain (moderate level of evidence). One study (N.=148) compared balneotherapy (seated immersion) versus hydrotherapy (exercises in water), land exercises or relaxation therapy. We found no statistically significant differences in pain or in physical disability (very low level of evidence) between groups. We found no statistically significant differences in pain intensity at eight weeks, but some benefit of mineral baths in overall improvement at eight weeks compared to Cyclosporin A (1 study; N.=57; low level of evidence).

CONCLUSION

Overall evidence is insufficient to show that balneotherapy is more effective than no treatment; that one type of bath is more effective than another or that one type of bath is more effective than exercise or relaxation therapy.

CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT

We were not able to assess any clinical relevant impact of balneotherapy over placebo, no treatment or other treatments.

Ischaemic cardiovascular risk and prescription of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for musculoskeletal complaints

OBJECTIVE

To determine the influence of ischaemic cardiovascular (CV) risk on prescription of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) by general practitioners (GPs) in patients with musculoskeletal complaints.

DESIGN

Cohort study.

SETTING

A healthcare database containing the electronic GP medical records of over one million patients throughout the Netherlands.

PATIENTS

A total of 474 201 adults consulting their GP with a new musculoskeletal complaint between 2000 and 2010. Patients were considered at high CV risk if they had a history of myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, stroke, transient ischaemic attack, or peripheral arterial disease, and at low CV risk if they had no CV risk factors.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Frequency of prescription of non-selective (ns)NSAIDs and selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors (coxibs).

RESULTS

Overall, 24.4% of patients were prescribed an nsNSAID and 1.4% a coxib. Of the 41,483 patients with a high CV risk, 19.9% received an nsNSAID and 2.2% a coxib. These patients were more likely to be prescribed a coxib than patients with a low CV risk (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.8-2.0). Prescription of nsNSAIDs decreased over time in all risk groups and was lower in patients with a high CV risk than in patients with a low CV risk (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.7-0.8).

CONCLUSION

Overall, patients with a high CV risk were less likely to be prescribed an NSAID for musculoskeletal complaints than patients with a low CV risk. Nevertheless, one in five high CV risk patients received an NSAID, indicating that there is still room for improvement.

OARSI guidelines for the non-surgical management of knee osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

To develop concise, up-to-date, patient-focused, evidence-based, expert consensus guidelines for the management of knee osteoarthritis (OA), intended to inform patients, physicians, and allied healthcare professionals worldwide.

METHOD

Thirteen experts from relevant medical disciplines (primary care, rheumatology, orthopedics, physical therapy, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and evidence-based medicine), three continents and ten countries (USA, UK, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Denmark, Australia, Japan, and Canada) and a patient representative comprised the Osteoarthritis Guidelines Development Group (OAGDG). Based on previous OA guidelines and a systematic review of the OA literature, 29 treatment modalities were considered for recommendation. Evidence published subsequent to the 2010 OARSI guidelines was based on a systematic review conducted by the OA Research Society International (OARSI) evidence team at Tufts Medical Center, Boston, USA. Medline, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were initially searched in first quarter 2012 and last searched in March 2013. Included evidence was assessed for quality using Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) criteria, and published criticism of included evidence was also considered. To provide recommendations for individuals with a range of health profiles and OA burden, treatment recommendations were stratified into four clinical sub-phenotypes. Consensus recommendations were produced using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Delphi voting process. Treatments were recommended as Appropriate, Uncertain, or Not Appropriate, for each of four clinical sub-phenotypes and accompanied by 1-10 risk and benefit scores.

RESULTS

Appropriate treatment modalities for all individuals with knee OA included biomechanical interventions, intra-articular corticosteroids, exercise (land-based and water-based), self-management and education, strength training, and weight management. Treatments appropriate for specific clinical sub-phenotypes included acetaminophen (paracetamol), balneotherapy, capsaicin, cane (walking stick), duloxetine, oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; COX-2 selective and non-selective), and topical NSAIDs. Treatments of uncertain appropriateness for specific clinical sub-phenotypes included acupuncture, avocado soybean unsaponfiables, chondroitin, crutches, diacerein, glucosamine, intra-articular hyaluronic acid, opioids (oral and transdermal), rosehip, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, and ultrasound. Treatments voted not appropriate included risedronate and electrotherapy (neuromuscular electrical stimulation).

CONCLUSION

These evidence-based consensus recommendations provide guidance to patients and practitioners on treatments applicable to all individuals with knee OA, as well as therapies that can be considered according to individualized patient needs and preferences.

What is the clinical course of transient synovitis in children: a systematic review of the literature

Background

Transient synovitis of the hip (TS) is considered to be a self-limiting disease in childhood. However, because the etiology is unclear and some cases precede Legg-Perthes’ disease, data on follow-up are important. Our aim was to summarize the knowledge on the clinical course of TS in children.

Methods

The study design was a systematic review and a literature search was conducted in Medline and Embase. Studies describing short and/or long-term follow-up of TS in children were included. Case reports, reviews and studies describing traumatic hip pain were excluded. Study quality was scored and data extraction was performed. The main outcome measures were short-term and long-term clinical course, and recurrence of symptoms.

Results

A total of 25 studies were included of which 14 were of high quality. At two-week follow-up, almost all children with TS were symptom free. Those with symptoms persisting for over one month were more prone to develop other hip pathology, such as Legg-Perthes’ disease. The recurrence rate of TS ranged from 0–26.3%. At long-term follow-up, 0-10% of the children diagnosed with TS developed Legg-Perthes’ disease. Hip pain after intensive physical effort and limited range of motion of the hip at long-term follow-up was reported in 12-28% and in 0-18% of the children, respectively.

Conclusions

The majority of the studies indicate that children with TS recover within two weeks; recurrence was seen in 0-26% of the cases. Children with TS should be followed at least six months to increase the likelihood of not missing Legg-Perthes’ disease.

Cross-sectional and predictive associations between plasma adipokines and radiographic signs of early-stage knee osteoarthritis: data from CHECK

OBJECTIVE

To investigate cross-sectional and predictive associations of plasma adipokines with biochemical markers of systemic joint metabolism and radiographic signs of early-stage knee osteoarthritis (OA).

DESIGN

The adipokines pLeptin, pAdiponectin, and pResistin, the cartilage markers C-terminal telopeptide of type II collagen (uCTX-II), N-terminal propeptide of type IIA procollagen (sPIIANP), chondroitin sulfate 846 (sCS846), and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (sCOMP), and the synovial markers hyaluronic acid (sHA) and N-terminal propeptide of type III procollagen (sPIIINP) were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or radioactive immunoassay in baseline samples of Cohort Hip and Cohort Knee (CHECK), a cohort of 1002 subjects with early-stage symptomatic knee and/or hip OA. Knee radiographs were obtained at baseline and after 2 and 5 years and scored according to Kellgren & Lawrence.

RESULTS

pLeptin showed positive associations with uCTX-II, sCOMP, sPIIANP, sHA, and sPIIINP, and with presence and progression of radiographic knee OA. Associations expectedly disappeared after adjustment for body mass index. pResistin showed positive associations with sPIIINP and present and incident radiographic knee OA that were largely independent of BMI. pAdiponectin showed positive associations with uCTX-II and sCOMP. Furthermore, pAdiponectin did not show associations with radiographic knee OA on itself, but associations of pResistin with present radiographic knee OA were stronger in higher pAdiponectin tertiles (P = 0.024 for interaction between pAdiponectin and pResistin). Although statistically significant, all associations were weak.

CONCLUSIONS

Adipokines may have aggravating, although may be minor, structural effects in early-stage knee OA.

Statin use is associated with reduced incidence and progression of knee osteoarthritis in the Rotterdam study

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis is the most frequent chronic joint disease causing pain and disability. Besides biomechanical mechanisms, the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis may involve inflammation, vascular alterations and dysregulation of lipid metabolism. As statins are able to modulate many of these processes, this study examines whether statin use is associated with a decreased incidence and/or progression of osteoarthritis.

METHODS

Participants in a prospective population-based cohort study aged 55 years and older (n=2921) were included. x-Rays of the knee/hip were obtained at baseline and after on average 6.5 years, and scored using the Kellgren and Lawrence score for osteoarthritis. Any increase in score was defined as overall progression (incidence and progression). Data on covariables were collected at baseline. Information on statin use during follow-up was obtained from computerised pharmacy databases. The overall progression of osteoarthritis was compared between users and non-users of statins. Using a multivariate logistic regression model with generalised estimating equation, OR and 95% CI were calculated after adjusting for confounding variables.

RESULTS

Overall progression of knee and hip osteoarthritis occurred in 6.9% and 4.7% of cases, respectively. The adjusted OR for overall progression of knee osteoarthritis in statin users was 0.43 (95% CI 0.25 to 0.77, p=0.01). The use of statins was not associated with overall progression of hip osteoarthritis.

CONCLUSIONS

Statin use is associated with more than a 50% reduction in overall progression of osteoarthritis of the knee, but not of the hip.

Supervised exercise therapy versus usual care for patellofemoral pain syndrome: an open label randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effectiveness of supervised exercise therapy compared with usual care with respect to recovery, pain, and function in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

DESIGN

Open label randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

General practice and sport physician practice.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with a new episode of patellofemoral pain syndrome recruited by their general practitioner or sport physician.

INTERVENTIONS

The intervention group received a standardised exercise programme for 6 weeks tailored to individual performance and supervised by a physical therapist, and were instructed to practise the tailored exercises at home for 3 months. The control group were assigned usual care, which comprised a "wait and see" approach of rest during periods of pain and refraining from pain provoking activities. Both the intervention group and the control group received written information about patellofemoral pain syndrome and general instructions for home exercises.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcomes were self reported recovery (7 point Likert scale), pain at rest and pain on activity (0-10 point numerical rating scale), and function (0-100 point Kujala patellofemoral score) at 3 months and 12 months follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 131 participants were included in the study: 65 in the intervention group and 66 in the control group. After 3 months, the intervention group showed better outcomes than the control group with regard to pain at rest (adjusted difference -1.07, 95% confidence interval -1.92 to -0.22; effect size 0.47), pain on activity (-1.00, -1.91 to -0.08; 0.45), and function (4.92, 0.14 to 9.72; 0.34). At 12 months, the intervention group continued to show better outcomes than the control group with regard to pain (adjusted difference in pain at rest -1.29, -2.16 to -0.42; effect size 0.56; pain on activity -1.19, -2.22 to -0.16; effect size 0.54), but not function (4.52, -0.73 to 9.76). A higher proportion of patients in the exercise group than in the control group reported recovery (41.9% v 35.0% at 3 months and 62.1% v 50.8% at 12 months), although the differences in self reported recovery between the two groups were not statistically significant. Predefined subgroup analyses revealed that patients recruited by sport physicians (n=30) did not benefit from the intervention, whereas those recruited by general practitioners (n=101) showed significant and clinically relevant differences in pain and function in favour of the intervention group.

CONCLUSION

Supervised exercise therapy resulted in less pain and better function at short term and long term follow-up compared with usual care in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome in general practice. Exercise therapy did not produce a significant difference in the rate of self reported recovery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN83938749.

Animal models for osteoarthritis: the effect of ovariectomy and estrogen treatment - a systematic approach

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA) increases dramatically in women after the age of 50. Animal models are used to study the effects of hormone depletion [by ovariectomy (OVX)] and estrogen treatment on OA. This review summarizes these animal studies, in order to get a better insight in the role of hormones on OA.

METHOD

The literature was systematically reviewed until May 2007. The results were divided into two parts: the effect of OVX on cartilage, and the effect of estrogen treatment on cartilage. Only studies with an appropriate control group (e.g., sham-operated) were included.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Eleven out of 16 animal studies showed that OVX resulted in cartilage damage. When only studies using sexually mature animals were included, we saw that 11 out of 14 studies showed a detrimental effect, indicating considerable evidence for a relation between cartilage degeneration and OVX in mature animals. The effect of estrogen treatment was inconclusive with only 11 out of 22 animal studies reporting a beneficial effect on cartilage, whereas all six studies administering selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) after OVX described protective effects. The discrepancy between the studies may be caused by the large variation in experimental set-up. We suggested a list of quality criteria for animal models since standardisation of design and outcome parameters of animal experiments may help to compare different studies and to gain better insight in the role of hormones in the osteoarthritic process.

Supervised exercises for adults with acute lateral ankle sprain: a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

During the recovery period after acute ankle sprain, it is unclear whether conventional treatment should be supported by supervised exercise.

AIM

To evaluate the short- and long-term effectiveness of conventional treatment combined with supervised exercises compared with conventional treatment alone in patients with an acute ankle sprain.

DESIGN

Randomised controlled clinical trial.

SETTING

A total of 32 Dutch general practices and the hospital emergency department.

METHOD

Adults with an acute lateral ankle sprain consulting general practices or the hospital emergency department were allocated to either conventional treatment combined with supervised exercises or conventional treatment alone. Primary outcomes were subjective recovery (0-10 point scale) and the occurrence of a resprain. Measurements were carried out at intake, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 3 months, and 1 year after injury. Data were analysed using intention-to-treat analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 102 patients were enrolled and randomised to either conventional treatment alone or conventional treatment combined with supervised exercise. There was no significant difference between treatment groups concerning subjective recovery or occurrence of resprains after 3 months and 1-year of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Conventional treatment combined with supervised exercises compared to conventional treatment alone during the first year after an acute lateral ankle sprain does not lead to differences in the occurrence of resprains or in subjective recovery.

Internal consistency and validity of a new physical workload questionnaire

AIMS

To examine the dimensionality, internal consistency, and construct validity of a new physical workload questionnaire in employees with musculoskeletal complaints.

METHODS

Factor analysis was applied to the responses in three study populations with musculoskeletal disorders (n = 406, 300, and 557) on 26 items related to physical workload. The internal consistency of the resulting subscales was examined. It was hypothesised that physical workload would vary among different occupational groups. The occupations of all subjects were classified into four groups on the basis of expected workload (heavy physical load; long lasting postures and repetitive movements; both; no physical load). Construct validity of the subscales created was tested by comparing the subscale scores among these occupational groups.

RESULTS

The pattern of the factor loadings of items was almost identical for the three study populations. Two interpretable factors were found: items related to heavy physical workload loaded highly on the first factor, and items related to static postures or repetitive work loaded highly on the second factor. The first constructed subscale "heavy physical work" had a Cronbach's alpha of 0.92 to 0.93 and the second subscale "long lasting postures and repetitive movements", of 0.86 to 0.87. Six of eight hypotheses regarding the construct validity of the subscales were confirmed.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support the internal structure, internal consistency, and validity of the new physical workload questionnaire. Testing this questionnaire in non-symptomatic employees and comparing its performance with objective assessments of physical workload are important next steps in the validation process.

Hip problems in older adults: classification by cluster analysis

No validated classification system of hip disorders in primary care is available. This study explores whether it is possible to obtain such a classification with the method of cluster analyses. A total of 224 consecutive patients aged 50 years or older, consulting the general practitioner for pain in the hip region, and referred for X-ray investigation of the hip, underwent a standardized examination. Ward's cluster analysis with variables from history and physical examination of the hip region resulted in a classification with nine different clusters. These clusters were reproduced in 10 random subsamples and with an alternative cluster analysis. Significant relationships of various external variables (radiological and sonographic signs and variables of low-back and knee examination) with the distinctive clusters were found. Twenty of the approached experts recognized the symptoms in seven clusters as identifiable syndromes. However, further validation of the achieved classification system, especially with respect to the clinical importance, is needed before introducing it into clinical practice.

Measuring the sacral inclination angle in clinical practice: is there an alternative to radiographs?

BACKGROUND

In patients with low back pain (LBP) the position of the pelvis is often a focus of physical or manual therapy. The "gold standard" to determine sacral inclination is by radiograph, but methods to measure sacral inclination externally with an inclinometer have also been introduced.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the validity of the inclinometer in measuring the sacral inclination in patients with LBP.

SUBJECTS

Adult patients with LBP who were referred by the general practitioner to the hospital for radiograph examination of the lumbosacral spine were included.

METHODS

Measurement of sacral inclination acquired with the inclinometer, simultaneous with the x-ray exposure, was compared with the "gold standard" measurement of sacral inclination on the radiograph. Regression analysis was used to define the measurement error.

RESULTS

Of 50 consecutive patients with LBP, radiographs of 41 patients were useful for the required measurements on the radiograph. The mean difference between the radiographic and inclinometer method was 23.12 degrees. The measurement error was 8.26 degrees. Regression analyses showed poor correlation between both methods (r = 0.28).

CONCLUSIONS

The method we used to measure sacral inclination with an inclinometer proved to be invalid.

How do general practitioners manage hip problems in adults?

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the medical management, and its consistency and determinants, of hip problems in adult patients.

SETTING

General practice, The Netherlands.

DESIGN

Observational study based on four "paper patients" and on computerised patients records (CPRs) of 400 patients (20 per general practitioner), aged 50 years and over, with new hip problems.

SUBJECTS

20 general practitioners.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Examination, diagnosis and treatment of hip patients.

RESULTS

Medical history and physical examination consisted mainly of questions concerning pain localisation and onset, and examining passive hip motion. The paper patients, except for the one with alarming symptoms, and the CPRs showed high variation in management between general practitioners, particularly for medication prescription and X-ray requests. Main factors influencing medical management were patients' age, number of visits and attitude of the individual general practitioner. A specific diagnosis was registered for only 32% of the 400 patients. The diagnosis osteoarthritis varied greatly between general practitioners even after adjustment for patients' age, gender and number of visits. Patients with osteoarthritis were infrequently referred to physical therapy and received nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) more often than paracetamol.

CONCLUSION

Diagnosis and treatment of hip problems varies widely between general practitioners. Treatment of patients with osteoarthritis is inconsistent with published recommendations.

Sonography for hip joint effusion in adults with hip pain

OBJECTIVE

To study the prevalence of ultrasonic hip joint effusion and its relation with clinical, radiological and laboratory (ESR) findings in adults with hip pain.

METHODS

Patients (n = 224) aged 50 years or older with hip pain, referred by the general practitioner for radiological investigation, underwent a standardised examination. The distance between the ventral capsule and the femoral neck, an increase in which represents joint effusion, was measured sonographically. Joint effusion was defined in three different ways: "effusion" according to Koski's definition, "major effusion", and "asymmetrical effusion" based on only individual side differences.

RESULTS

"Effusion" was present in 80 (38%), "major effusion" in 20 (9%), and "asymmetrical effusion" in 47 (22%) patients. Pain in the groin or medial thigh, pain aggravated by lying on the side, decreased extension/internal rotation/abduction/flexion, painful external rotation, and pain on palpation in the groin showed a significant relation (adjusted for age and radiological osteoarthritis of the hip) with ultrasonic hip joint effusion. "Major effusion" showed a significant relation with an increased ESR. When patients with bilateral pain and increased ESR were excluded, a side difference in the range of motion of extension of the hip was shown to be a good predictor for "asymmetrical effusion" (positive predictive value: 71%, negative predictive value: 80%).

CONCLUSION

This study showed a relatively high prevalence of ultrasonic joint effusion in adults with hip pain in general practice. Furthermore the results indicate a relation between joint effusion and clinical signs.

Comparison between two devices for measuring hip joint motions

OBJECTIVE

To compare the reliability of measurements of hip motions obtained with two instruments, an electronic inclinometer and a two-arm goniometer, and to investigate whether the two instruments, and different body positions, produce the same measurement data.

METHODS

Maximal active and passive hip movements were measured simultaneously with both instruments, in nine subjects during 10 consecutive measurements at short intervals.

RESULTS

Intra-observer variability was lower with the inclinometer in measurements of passive hip rotations. The two instruments showed equal intra-observer variability for hip movements in general. The inclinometer showed lower inter-observer variability in the measurements of active internal rotation. More rotational movement was measured with the two-arm goniometer; more extension and flexion with the inclinometer. Also, more rotational movement was found in the prone position compared to sitting and supine positions.

CONCLUSIONS

The inclinometer is more reliable in measurements of hip rotation. For hip movements in general the two-arm goniometer is just as accurate when used by only one observer. The two instruments, and some positions, are not interchangeable during consecutive measurements.