Anterior Tibiotalar Fat Pad Involvement in Ankle Osteoarthritis: MRI Features in Patients 1 Year After a Lateral Ankle Sprain

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the characteristics of the anterior tibiotalar fat pad (ATFP) in the ankle joint in a population of patients 1 year after an ankle sprain and its correlation with systemic factors and local articular pathology.

DESIGN

The study is a secondary analysis of an observational case-control study. We included 206 patients who were followed 6-12 months after ankle sprain. T1 MRI scans were assessed for signal intensity and area of ATFP by mapping the fat pad using dedicated imaging software (Mimics 18.0). Quantitative values of intensity and area were generated. Linear regression analysis was used to examine the association between both local and systemic factors and the ATFP. Variables with a P value <0.2 were entered in 5 stepwise multivariate models: (1) age-sex-body mass index (BMI); (2) anamnesis; (3) physical examination; (4) radiographic findings; and (5) MRI findings. Predictors in these separate models were entered in the final model.

RESULTS

The final multivariate model showed a significant positive association between age (P = 0.04; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.13 ± 1.06), BMI (P = 0.05; 95% CI = 3.61 ± 3.53), and sex (P < 0.01; 95% CI = -49.26 ± 30.04) with T1 intensity. The final model also showed a significant negative association between age (P < 0.01; 95% CI = -0.57 ± 0.34), diffuse cartilage loss in the lateral talus (P = 0.03; 95% CI = -0.71 ± 0.63), and Kellgren and Lawrence score in the tibiotalar joint (P < 0.01; 95%CI = -21.61 ± 7.24) and ATFP area. A positive association was found between BMI (P < 0.01; 95% CI = 2.25 ± 1.15) and ATFP area.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates a correlation between ATFP and both systemic factors and local pathology in the ankle joint.

Nocturnal pain and fatigue in middle-aged persons with hip symptoms suspected to be osteoarthritis, is there a link in 10-year follow-up of the CHECK study?

Objective

To explore the prevalence of nocturnal pain and fatigue in participants with hip symptoms suspected to be early osteoarthritis (OA) and to test the mediating effect of nocturnal pain on the association between hip OA pain and fatigue.

Methods

We included participants with hip pain but no knee pain at baseline, from the Cohort Hip and Cohort Knee (CHECK)-study. Severity of hip OA pain was determined using the Numeric-Rating-Scale-pain-score last week. Fatigue was assessed using the SF-36 Fatigue subscale. Nocturnal pain was determined using the WOMAC-question: "How much pain have you experienced in the last 48 ​h at night while in bed?". Hip OA pain, nocturnal pain and fatigue were measured repeatedly during 10-year follow-up. Path analysis were used per time point to determine the direct effect of OA pain on fatigue and the indirect effect through nocturnal pain.

Results

In 170 participants (female: 76%; mean age: 55.7 years; mean BMI: 25.5 ​kg/m²) the prevalence of nocturnal pain varied between 22 and 35% and the prevalence of fatigue ranged between 14 and 18%. Hip OA pain was associated with nocturnal pain and fatigue. The direct effect of hip OA pain on fatigue was significant at all-time points. No significant mediating effect of nocturnal pain was found.

Conclusion

In this cohort of participants suspected to have early hip OA, the prevalence of fatigue remained stable and the prevalence of nocturnal pain decreased slightly over 10-year follow-up. We did not find a mediating effect of nocturnal pain in the pathway between hip OA pain and fatigue.

Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections for the Treatment of Ankle Osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

Ankle osteoarthritis is debilitating and usually affects relatively young people, often as a result of previous ankle traumas, frequently occurring in sports. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for ankle osteoarthritis have shown no evidence of benefit over the course of 26 weeks. Previous studies on PRP for knee osteoarthritis showed that clinically significant improvements with PRP occurred between 6 to 12 months in the absence of initial benefit. No studies have evaluated the effect of PRP from 6 to 12 months in ankle osteoarthritis.

PURPOSE

To assess the efficacy of PRP injections in ankle osteoarthritis over the course of 52 weeks.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

METHODS

In this 52-week follow-up trial, 100 patients with ankle osteoarthritis were randomized to a PRP group or placebo (saline) group. Patients received 2 intra-articular talocrural injections: at inclusion and after 6 weeks. Patient-reported outcome measures were used to assess pain, function, quality of life, and indirect costs over 52 weeks.

RESULTS

Two patients (2%) were lost to follow-up. The adjusted between-group difference for the patient-reported American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score over 52 weeks was -2 points (95% CI, -5 to 2; P = .31) in favor of the placebo group. No significant between-group differences were observed for any of the secondary outcome measures.

CONCLUSION

For patients with ankle osteoarthritis, PRP injections did not improve ankle symptoms and function over 52 weeks compared with placebo injections.

REGISTRATION

NTR7261 (Netherlands Trial Register).

The OA Trial Bank: Update of individual patient data meta-analysis of intra-articular glucocorticoids in persons with knee and hip osteoarthritis

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of intra--articular (IA) glucocorticoid for knee or hip osteoarthritis (OA) in specific subgroups of patients according to the baseline severity of pain and inflammatory signs using individual patient data (IPD) from existing trials. Furthermore, this study aims to assess if a baseline pain cut-off was associated with clinically important effectiveness of IA glucocorticoid. This is an update of an IA glucocorticoid IPD meta-analysis by the OA Trial Bank.

Method

Randomized trials evaluating one or more IA glucocorticoid preparations in hip and knee OA, published to May 2018 were selected. IPD of patient and disease characteristics and outcome measures were acquired. The primary outcome was pain severity at short-term follow-up (up to 4 weeks). Potential interaction effect of severe pain (≥70 points, 0-100 scale) and signs of inflammation at baseline were studied using a two-stage approach with general liner model followed by random effects model. Analysis of trend was conducted, assessing if a baseline pain cut-off was associated with the threshold for clinically important treatment effect of IA glucocorticoid compared to placebo.

Results

Four out of 16 eligible randomized clinical trials (n ​= ​641) were combined with the existing OA Trial Bank studies (n ​= ​620), yielding 1261 participants from eleven studies. Participants with severe baseline pain compared to those with less severe pain had greater pain reduction at mid-term (around 12 weeks) (mean reduction: -6.90 (95%CI -10.91; -2.90)), but not at short- and long-term. No interaction effects were found between inflammatory signs and IA glucocorticoid injections compared to placebo at all follow-up time-points. Analysis of trend demonstrated treatment response to IA glucocorticoid from baseline pain levels >50 (0-100 scale) and above.

Conclusion

This updated IPD meta-analysis demonstrated that participants with severe pain compared to those with less severe pain at baseline experienced significantly more pain relief with IA glucocorticoid compared with placebo at mid-term.

Psychometric qualities of the patient rated Wrist/Hand evaluation (PRWHE) in dutch primary care patients with wrist complaints

Background

Knowledge on the course, disability and functionality of wrist complaints is still compendious in primary care guidelines, despite the high prevalence in primary care. Valid questionnaires can facilitate the monitoring of patients in primary care and research initiatives. In this study, we aimed to study the psychometric qualities of the Dutch version of the Patient Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation (PRWHE-DLV) among adults with (sub)acute wrist complaints in primary care.

Methods

An observational cohort of 35 adults with (sub)acute wrist complaints in Dutch primary care was established. The content validity of the PRWHE-DLV was validated by assessing the floor and ceiling effects at baseline (T0). Reproducibility was assessed by the test-retest reliability between T0 and T1 (2–5 days after T0), using the Intra-class Correlation Coefficient. The construct validity was assessed based on the correlation between the PRWHE-DLV and the Quick-DASH, Physical Component Score (SF-12), VAS-function, Physical Functioning (SF-12), VAS-pain and Bodily Pain (SF-12) at T0. Responsiveness was defined as the ability of the PRWHE-DLV to measure change 3 weeks after T0 (internal) and the relation of these changes to clinically important outcomes (external).

Results

Psychometric qualities of the PRWHE-DLV demonstrated high content validity with no floor or ceiling effects, excellent reliability (Intra-class correlation coefficient = 0.90; 95% CI 0.80–0.95), high construct validity with the validated Quick-DASH and VAS score (r = 0.85 with Quick-DASH, r = 0.75 with VAS-function and r = 0.78 with VAS-pain) and high responsiveness.

Conclusion

The PRWHE-DLV provided reliable and adequate information for primary care clinical practice.

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.

Developing clinical prediction models for nonrecovery in older patients seeking care for back pain: the back complaints in the elders prospective cohort study

ABSTRACT

Back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide and is common in older adults. No clinical prediction models for poor long-term outcomes have been developed in older patients with back pain. This study aimed to develop and internally validate 3 clinical prediction models for nonrecovery in this population. A prospective cohort study in general practice was conducted (Back Complaints in the Elders, Netherlands), including 675 patients >55 years with a new episode of care for back pain. Three definitions of nonrecovery were used combining 6-month and 12-month follow-up data: (1) persistent back pain, (2) persistent disability, and (3) perceived nonrecovery. Sample size calculation resulted in a maximum of 14 candidate predictors that were selected from back pain prognostic literature and clinical experience. Multivariable logistic regression was used to develop the models (backward selection procedure). Models' performance was evaluated with explained variance (Nagelkerke's R2), calibration (Hosmer-Lemeshow test), and discrimination (area under the curve [AUC]) measures. The models were internally validated in 250 bootstrapped samples to correct for overoptimism. All 3 models displayed good overall performance during development and internal validation (ie, R2 > 30%; AUC > 0.77). The model predicting persistent disability performed best, showing good calibration, discrimination (AUC 0.86, 95% confidence interval 0.83-0.89; optimism-adjusted AUC 0.85), and explained variance (R2 49%, optimism-adjusted R2 46%). Common predictors in all models were: age, chronic duration, disability, a recent back pain episode, and patients' recovery expectations. Spinal morning stiffness and pain during spinal rotation were included in 2 of 3 models. These models should be externally validated before being used in a clinical primary care setting.

Differences in Knee Shape between ACL Injured and Non-Injured: A Matched Case-Control Study of 168 Patients

OBJECTIVE

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury prevention programs could be more effective if we could select patients at risk for sustaining an ACL rupture. The purpose of this study is to identify radiographic shape variants of the knee between patients with and patients without an ACL rupture.

METHODS

We compared the lateral and Rosenberg view X-rays of 168 prospectively followed patients with a ruptured ACL to a control group with intact ACLs, matched for gender, after knee trauma. We used statistical shape modeling software to examine knee shape and find differences in shape variants between both groups.

RESULTS

In the Rosenberg view X-rays, we found five shape variants to be significantly different between patients with an ACL rupture and patients with an intact ACL but with knee trauma. Overall, patients who had ruptured their ACL had smaller, flatter intercondylar notches, a lower lateral tibia plateau, a lower medial spike of the eminence, and a smaller tibial eminence compared to control patients.

CONCLUSION

Patients with an ACL rupture have smaller intercondylar notches and smaller tibial eminences in comparison to patients with an intact ACL after knee trauma.

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.

Traumatic Meniscal Tears Are Associated With Meniscal Degeneration

BACKGROUND

Meniscal tears are traditionally classified into traumatic versus degenerative tears. Although this classification plays a major role in clinical decision making, no consensus exists on the exact definition of a traumatic or degenerative tear, and the histopathological basis for this classification is unclear.

PURPOSE

To assess the histological degree of meniscal degeneration in patients with a traumatic meniscal tear, as compared with intact meniscal tissue and osteoarthritic meniscal tissue.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive laboratory study.

METHODS

Traumatically torn meniscal tissue was collected during arthroscopic partial meniscectomy. As a control group, intact meniscal tissue was used from transfemoral amputations or direct postmortem dissections. Meniscal tissue from osteoarthritic knees was obtained during total knee replacement surgery. Meniscal tissue was processed, stained, and histologically analyzed with the Pauli scoring system (range, 0-18), comprising the subdomains surface integrity, cellularity, collagen organization, and matrix staining. Scoring was performed by 2 independent observers, blinded to condition, region, and patient data of the meniscus.

RESULTS

The traumatic meniscal tear group contained 43 patients (34 men; median age, 29 years; median body mass index [BMI], 24 kg/m²); the intact meniscal tissue group, 8 patients (3 men; median age, 58 years; median BMI, 30 kg/m²); and the osteoarthritic group, 14 patients (4 men; median age, 66 years; median BMI, 28 kg/m²). After adjustment for sex, age, and BMI, patients with a traumatic meniscal tear had a significantly higher histological score than patients with intact meniscal tissue (2.7-point difference; P = .035). Histological score between the traumatic and osteoarthritic groups was not different.

CONCLUSION

Traumatically torn menisci possess a higher degree of degeneration than intact menisci. Our results suggest that patients with a traumatic meniscal tear may already have had a certain degree of meniscal degeneration. These findings potentially challenge the classic view of traumatic versus degenerative meniscal tears.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Our findings provide a better understanding of the tissue condition of a torn meniscus. This knowledge may help clinicians decide on choice of treatment and may lead to new perspectives to prevent knee osteoarthritis in patients with a torn meniscus.

Self-Assessment of Competence and Referral Behavior for Musculoskeletal Injections among Dutch General Practitioners

General practitioners (GPs) are qualified and trained to administer therapeutic musculoskeletal injections when indicated. However, it is unknown to what extend Dutch GPs feel competent to administer these injections in clinical practice. Reluctance among GPs to inject might lead to unnecessary and costly referral to secondary care. An online and offline questionnaire was spread among Dutch GPs, querying demographics, GPs' self-assessment of injection competence, the number of administered/referred injections and management strategy for musculoskeletal injections. A total of 355 GPs responded. In total, 81% of the GPs considered themselves competent in administering musculoskeletal injections. Self-assessed incompetent GPs performed less injections the last month than self-assessed competent GPs (1.2 ± 1.4 vs 4.8 ± 4.6 injections, P < 0.001). Additionally, they referred four times more often to a colleague GP (0.4 ± 1.0 vs 0.1 ± 0.6 injections per month, P < 0.001) and twice as often to secondary care (1.0 ± 1.3 vs 0.5 ± 0.9 injections per month, P = 0.001). Self-assessed incompetence was associated with female sex (OR [95% CI] = 4.94 [2.39, 10.21]) and part-time work (OR [95% CI] = 2.58 [1.43, 4.66]). The most frequently addressed barriers were a lack of confidence in injection skills, lack of practical training, and uncertainty about the effectiveness and diagnosis of musculoskeletal injections. Although most GPs considered themselves competent to administer musculoskeletal injections, the referral rate to secondary care for several injections was strikingly high. To decrease secondary care referrals, addressing some of the most frequently indicated barriers is highly recommended.

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.

Are Patellofemoral Joint Alignment and Shape Associated With Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging Abnormalities and Symptoms Among People With Patellofemoral Pain?

BACKGROUND

Patellofemoral malalignment has been observed among people with patellofemoral pain (PFP) and may be associated with the presence of imaging features of osteoarthritis, symptoms, and function.

PURPOSE

To determine whether patellofemoral joint alignment and bony shape are associated with (1) cartilage, bone, and soft tissue morphological abnormalities defined on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and (2) reported symptoms and function among people with PFP.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Participants (mean ± SD age, 30.2 ± 9.5 years; range, 14-50 years; 78 females, 58.6%) completed questionnaires regarding demographics, pain, symptoms, and function and underwent a 3-T MRI scan of their more symptomatic eligible knee. Structural MRI abnormalities were scored with the MOAKS (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Osteoarthritis Knee Score), and MRI alignment and shape were measured with standardized methods. Associations among MOAKS features, PFP symptoms, and alignment and shape measures were evaluated with regression analyses (α = .05).

RESULTS

Minor cartilage defects were present in 22 (16.5%) participants, patellar osteophytes in 83 (62.4%), anterior femur osteophytes in 29 (21.8%), Hoffa synovitis in 81 (60.9%), and prefemoral fat pad synovitis in 49 (36.8%). A larger Insall-Salvati ratio was significantly associated with the presence of patellar osteophytes (odds ratio [OR], 51.82; 95% CI, 4.20-640.01), Hoffa synovitis (OR, 60.37; 95% CI, 4.66-782.61), and prefemoral fat pad synovitis (OR, 43.31; 95% CI, 4.28-438.72) in the patellofemoral joint. A larger patellar tilt angle was significantly associated with the presence of minor cartilage defects (OR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.00-1.20), the presence of patellar osteophytes (OR 1.12; 95%CI 1.02-1.22), and prefemoral fat pad synovitis (OR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.03-1.20) in the patellofemoral joint. Finally, a larger bisect offset was significantly associated with the presence of minor cartilage defects (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.00-1.11) and patellar osteophytes (OR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.01-1.14) in the patellofemoral joint. The majority of patellofemoral alignment measures were not associated with symptoms or function.

CONCLUSION

For people with PFP, the presence of morphological abnormalities defined on MRI appears to be related to particular patellofemoral alignment measures, including higher Insall-Salvati ratio (indicating patella alta), larger patellar tilt angle (indicating greater lateral tilt), and larger bisect offset (indicating greater lateral displacement). Hardly any associations were found with symptoms or function. So there might be a distinct subgroup of PFP that is more prone to developing patellofemoral osteoarthritis later in life, as particular alignment measures seem to be associated with the presence of patellar osteophytes. Prospective studies are required to investigate the longitudinal relationship between alignment or bony shape and morphological abnormalities defined on MRI in this patient population.

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.

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.

Adverse drug reactions in a primary care population prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

OBJECTIVE

To determine how often patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints prescribed a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) subsequently consult their general practitioner (GP) with a non-serious adverse drug reaction (ADR).

DESIGN

Cohort study.

SETTING

A healthcare database containing the electronic GP medical records of over 1.5 million patients throughout the Netherlands.

PATIENTS

A total of 16 626 adult patients with MSK complaints prescribed an NSAID.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The patients' medical records were manually assessed for the duration of NSAID use for a maximum of two months, and consultations for complaints predefined as potential ADRs were identified. Subsequently, the likelihood of an association with the NSAID use was assessed and these potential ADRs were categorized as likely, possible, or unlikely ADRs.

RESULTS

In total, 961 patients (6%) consulted their GP with 1227 non-serious potential ADRs. In 174 patients (1%) at least one of these was categorized as a likely ADR, and in a further 408 patients (2.5%) at least one was categorized as a possible ADR. Dyspepsia was the most frequent likely ADR, followed by diarrhoea and dyspnoea (respectively 34%, 8%, and 8% of all likely ADRs).

CONCLUSION

Of the patients with MSK complaints prescribed an NSAID, almost one in 30 patients re-consulted their GP with a complaint likely or possibly associated with the use of this drug. The burden of such consultations for non-serious ADRs should be taken into account by GPs when deciding whether treatment with an NSAID is appropriate.

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.

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.

Recommendations for standardization and phenotype definitions in genetic studies of osteoarthritis: the TREAT-OA consortium

OBJECTIVE

To address the need for standardization of osteoarthritis (OA) phenotypes by examining the effect of heterogeneity among symptomatic (SOA) and radiographic osteoarthritis (ROA) phenotypes.

METHODS

Descriptions of OA phenotypes of the 28 studies involved in the TREAT-OA consortium were collected. We investigated whether different OA definitions result in different association results by creating various hip OA definitions in one large population based cohort (the Rotterdam Study I (RSI)) and testing those for association with gender, age and body mass index using one-way ANOVA. For ROA, we standardized the hip-, knee- and hand ROA definitions and calculated prevalence's of ROA before and after standardization in nine cohort studies. This procedure could only be performed in cohort studies and standardization of SOA definitions was not feasible at this moment.

RESULTS

In this consortium, all studies with SOA phenotypes (knee, hip and hand) used a different definition and/or assessment of OA status. For knee-, hip- and hand ROA five, four and seven different definitions were used, respectively. Different hip ROA definitions do lead to different association results. For example, we showed in the RSI that hip OA defined as "at least definite joint space narrowing (JSN) and one definite osteophyte" was not associated with gender (P =0.22), but defined as "at least one definite osteophyte" was significantly associated with gender (P=3×10(-9)). Therefore, a standardization process was undertaken for ROA definitions. Before standardization a wide range of ROA prevalence's was observed in the nine cohorts studied. After standardization the range in prevalence of knee- and hip ROA was small.

CONCLUSION

Phenotype definitions influence the prevalence of OA and association with clinical variables. ROA phenotypes within the TREAT-OA consortium were standardized to reduce heterogeneity and improve power in future genetics studies.

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.

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.