A network meta-analysis of 53 randomized controlled trials found naproxen most effective in improving both pain and function, followed by cortisone injections and PRP injections. The study suggests naproxen as a relatively safe and low-cost treatment option for knee osteoarthritis.
Researchers Nelly Andarawis-Puri and Johnny Huard received Kappa Delta Awards for their work on tendon healing and remodeling, and the use of adult stem cells in musculoskeletal tissue repair. Their research has led to a better understanding of how tendons heal and how to develop more effective treatments for musculoskeletal injuries.
Rick D. Wilkerson, DO is the recipient of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) 2018 Humanitarian Award for his humanitarian efforts abroad. He has made significant contributions to orthopaedic care in countries such as Haiti, Iraq, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Libya, and Uganda.
Ramon L. Jimenez, MD, is awarded the AAOS' highest leadership honor for his outstanding contributions to advancing important causes in orthopaedics, including mentoring physician leaders and promoting cultural competency. He has worked diligently to improve patient care and diversify the orthopaedic workforce.
Mark C. Gebhardt, MD, is recognized for his efforts to increase diversity in orthopaedics, particularly among women and minority groups. He has mentored numerous medical students and residents, and advocates for recruiting and hiring diverse talent into the field.
A new study found that a return to play checklist decreases the incidence of injury to the knee following ACL reconstruction. The checklist includes seven objective measures to determine when athletes are safe to return to sports, resulting in significant reductions in re-injury and contralateral knee injuries.
The study projects a significant increase in total joint replacement procedures, with primary THR expected to grow 171% by 2030 and 330% by 2060. Revision TJR procedures are also expected to rise, particularly for TKR, which has been slowing its growth rate since 2008.
Researchers found a correlation between flying following hip or knee arthroplasty and an increased risk of venous thromboembolism. VTE is a serious complication that can follow these surgeries, with 10 million cases occurring annually worldwide.
Two US programs, Sportsmetrics and PEP, have been shown to significantly decrease non-contact ACL injury rates and alter dangerous neuromuscular movement patterns in female athletes. These programs improve muscle strength, reduce muscular imbalances, and decrease landing forces.
Research finds that 54.7% of parents encourage their children to specialize in a single sport, increasing injury risk and burnout. Sports specialization can decrease enjoyment due to excessive training and limit cross-training benefits.
A growing number of centers are advertising stem cell therapies for knee osteoarthritis, claiming an 80% success rate. However, research has found poor levels of evidence to support the efficacy of these treatments, and no correlation between treatment costs and effectiveness.
Two studies showed that pre-operative counseling and non-opioid pain relievers can significantly reduce post-surgery opioid use, resulting in a two-thirds decrease in opioid consumption. Patients who used non-opioids experienced an equivalent pain experience with fewer adverse events compared to those using opioids.
Children with vitamin D deficiency are at a higher risk of having more severe forearm fractures requiring surgical treatment. A new study found that 21% of patients were deficient and 49% had insufficiency, with those treated surgically having a significantly higher incidence rate.
A new study found that soccer athletes who returned to play after ACL reconstruction had a lower success rate than those who underwent primary ACL reconstruction. Female athletes faced a higher risk of additional knee surgery, with about one in five needing further surgery, compared to one in twenty for males.
Research reveals cycling as the leading cause of cervical fractures in men, with a significant increase in injuries over the past two decades. The study analyzed 50,000 patient cases and found that football was the most common cause of neck sprains in women, while horseback riding caused the most cervical fractures in females.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends a preseason conditioning program and familiarity with equipment maintenance to reduce the risk of bone and joint injuries. Skiers are more likely to experience lower extremity injuries, while snowboarders are more likely to suffer upper extremity injuries due to falls.
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that female athletes experience a higher concussion injury rate than male athletes. Athletes with a prior concussion injury were three times more likely to suffer another contact sport-related concussion.
Intra-articular corticosteroid injections provide effective short-term pain relief and improved function for patients with low-grade knee OA. Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in physical activity can also help manage symptoms, potentially delaying the need for surgery.
According to a new literature review, therapeutic modalities such as physical therapy can improve bone-and-joint function affected by pain and/or injury. The study highlights the utility of various modalities, including cryotherapy, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, hot and cold therapies, cupping therapy, and iontophoresis, in man...
A recent study found no association between opioid intake and disability, satisfaction with surgery, or pain management at 5-8 months post-surgery. However, patients using opioids reported more pain with activity and catastrophic thinking, leading to anxiety and limited mobility.
Three common conditions affecting varsity and professional athletes include symptomatic lumbar disk degeneration, lumbar disk herniation, and spondylolysis. Nonsurgical therapy is recommended as the first-line treatment for lower back conditions in elite athletes, with successful recovery rates reported.
Pregnant women are vulnerable to orthopaedic traumas due to car crashes or domestic violence, with bodily changes affecting treatment processes. A team of specialists is essential for optimal patient outcomes, prioritizing the mother's health and minimizing fetal harm.
The Kappa Delta Sorority presented four awards to scientists conducting outstanding musculoskeletal disease research, focusing on ankle osteoarthritis, clubfoot treatment, and wrist kinematics. The winners emphasized the importance of personalized medicine, assessing physical performance beyond patient-reported outcomes to improve reco...
David A. Spiegel, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, has spent over 20 years providing humanitarian care to children with clubfoot conditions in Nepal and internationally. He introduced the Ponseti method for treatment, which has benefited over 4,000 feet at the Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre for Disabled Children.
Dr. Grant, a pioneer in promoting diversity in orthopaedics, has been recognized by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) with its Diversity Award. He has dedicated his career to empowering minority students in residency programs.
William J. Robb III, MD, is awarded the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons' (AAOS) highest honor for his exceptional leadership qualities and contributions to the orthopedic community. He has demonstrated a commitment to advancing patient safety through initiatives such as the establishment of a new safety culture in the AAOS.
A new study found that well-informed patients who decide on their own orthopaedic treatment have better outcomes and higher patient satisfaction. Patients with a good understanding of their condition are more likely to make informed, patient-centered decisions and experience improved quality of life.
Research shows that arthroscopic hip surgery is effective in improving running ability, with 96% of recreational and competitive runners returning to their sport within nine months. However, increasing BMI and longer time without running prior to surgery are associated with slower recovery.
A new study found that nearly all recreational athletes under 55 who underwent total shoulder replacement surgery returned to at least one sport within seven months, with high satisfaction rates and high use of their shoulders.
A new study found that patients who live alone can recover effectively and safely at home after total hip or knee replacement surgery. The study, involving 769 patients, found no increase in complications or pain, but significant cost savings for those recovering at home.
Patients with high cholesterol levels face increased risk of rotator cuff surgery failure. Statin use prior to surgery reduces this risk, according to a new study. The study found no impact on outcomes from patient triglyceride levels.
A new study found that female soccer players suffer the most concussions in high school sports, with a significantly higher concussion rate than boys. The study, which analyzed injury data from 2005 to 2015, also revealed that girls' soccer had the highest concussion rate during the 10-year study period.
Patients taking SSRIs for anxiety and depression may experience a reduced risk of revision surgery after total hip or knee replacement. This is due to better management of depression and pain in these patients, or potential positive biologic effects of SSRIs.
A new study found that 45% of high school athletes specialize in just one sport, two years earlier than current collegiate and professional athletes. Professional athletes reported a higher incidence of musculoskeletal injuries and lower promotion of early specialization.
A study of 86,000 patients found that almost one-third of costs prior to total knee replacement went towards non-recommended therapies. The top three most costly treatments were hyaluronic acid injections, corticosteroid injections, and physical therapy, accounting for 52.6% of expenses.
A recent study found that less than half of elderly hip fracture patients take vitamin D supplements, contradicting national recommendations. This suggests a need for improved advocacy and education about vitamin D supplementation.
A new study reveals that men are at a higher risk of mortality after osteoporosis-related fractures compared to women. The study found that men who require surgical treatment for an initial fracture are more likely to suffer a subsequent fracture within three years.
Researchers identified key strategies to enhance total knee replacement outcomes for patients with obesity, including managing chronic conditions and nutritional deficiencies. Excess soft tissue during surgery can obstruct visibility, leading to difficulty achieving proper alignment and implant fixation.
Patients with low back pain that radiates to the buttock, groin, thigh, and knees may have complex 'hip-spine syndrome'. A comprehensive physical examination and imaging studies can help diagnose the primary cause of pain. The article recommends considering both hip and spine conditions in diagnosis and treatment.
A new review found functional rehabilitation and minimally invasive surgery to be effective treatment options for Achilles tendon tears, especially in recreational athletes. Surgical repair may be optimal for high-performance athletes, offering improved strength and power.
Research suggests direct costs for select orthopaedic procedures at ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) could be significantly less than university hospitals. ASCs offer convenient and potentially cost-effective care options with streamlined processes.
Orthopaedic surgeons are adopting new patient-focused measures to improve post-surgical outcomes and quality of life. The National Institutes of Health's Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) is being used to objectively assess and track patient symptoms over time.
A new study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that incorporating multiple senses in physician-patient conversations improves patient comprehension of orthopaedic conditions. The study showed significant differences in understanding between groups using verbal, video, and model-based discussions.
A study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that X-rays are the most effective diagnostic tool for knee pain in middle-aged patients. The study suggests that weight-bearing X-rays should be obtained before an MRI to screen for knee pain, as they can often provide enough information for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
A new study found that prevention programs significantly reduce the risk of ankle injuries in soccer players. These programs include neuromuscular, proprioceptive, strengthening, and stretching exercises, and have been shown to be effective in reducing injury rates by up to 40%.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends standardized education programs for surgeons, residents, and hospital staff to improve teamwork and non-technical skills. These programs aim to enhance communication, resilience, leadership, and teamwork among surgical teams.
Competitive swimmers are at risk of shoulder injuries due to the high stress on their joints. Proper technique, training, stretching, and strengthening can help prevent these injuries. Swimmers may experience signs such as a dropped elbow or excessive body roll, which can be diagnosed with a thorough physical examination.
A new study published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found significant racial disparities in knee replacement surgery, with minorities having lower rates of TKR utilization but higher rates of adverse health outcomes. The study also revealed that black, Native American, and mixed-race individuals faced significantly higher risk f...
Elderly patients with wrist fractures are more likely to have poor balance, increasing the risk of future injuries. Researchers recommend evaluating and treating balance deficiencies after a fracture to prevent further complications.
A literature review found that deployed military service members are three times more likely to suffer non-combat musculoskeletal injuries than combat-related ones. Non-combat injuries common among service members include ACL injuries and ankle sprains, with 50% of surgical procedures on the knee or shoulder.