New research reveals that spinal surgery significantly reduces low back pain and improves sexual function in patients with degenerative conditions. The study found that 70% of patients consider sex an important aspect of their life quality.
Researchers created an algorithm to determine factors contributing to arthritis pain in a national representative sample of adults. The study found that physical health status, diabetes, and previous joint pain were the greatest predictors of pain, with an accuracy rate of 98.6%.
Researchers found that most hip replacement patients can safely drive within two weeks of surgery, with only 13% reaching baseline driving readiness at four weeks. Patients who underwent THR were assessed using the Brake Reaction Test and reported a high rate of recovery.
A new study found that surgical treatment provides significant benefit for lumbar spinal stenosis and degenerative spondylolisthesis in patients over 80, with comparable complication rates to younger patients. The benefits of surgery were similar to those in younger patients, except for pain and physical function outcomes.
Human bites can transmit over 600 bacterial species through oral flora, posing a significant risk of infection. Prompt treatment within 24 hours of an animal or human bite is crucial to prevent serious injury or infection, with antibiotic treatment recommended for hand bites to reduce the risk of infection and disability.
A new study found that patients with spinal compression fractures who wore no brace fared as well as patients instructed to wear a brace for treatment, with comparable outcomes in terms of pain and healing. However, prolonged use of the braces may result in muscle deterioration, skin irritation, and additional costs.
A literature review suggests that prompt and appropriate treatment of dislocated shoulders can minimize risk and effects of related bone, muscle, and nerve injuries. The study found that up to 96 percent of dislocations are traumatic, occurring most often during contact sports or falls onto an outstretched hand.
A study found that older men are three times less likely than women to undergo osteoporosis screening and treatment after a broken wrist. This disparity increases the risk of future bone breaks and related complications in men, who already have twice the mortality rate of women following a hip fracture.
Obesity affects orthopaedic care, healthcare systems, and individual organs, increasing the risk of musculoskeletal pain, osteoarthritis, and joint injuries. Patients with obesity face higher surgical complication rates, but orthopaedic procedures can minimize pain and improve bone function.
A new study found that prehabilitation physical therapy before joint replacement surgery can significantly reduce the need for postoperative care. The research revealed a 29% reduction in postoperative care use among patients who received preoperative physical therapy, resulting in an adjusted cost savings of $1,215 per patient.
Research suggests that comprehensive fitness and nutrition regimens can minimize bone and joint health decline and maintain overall physical health in seniors. The study recommends individualized exercise programs with resistance, endurance, flexibility, and balance training, as well as proper nutrition to optimize performance.
A new study found that surgery for hip fractures yields significant savings in lifetime medical costs, with total societal savings exceeding $16 billion for older patients. Surgery also improves physical function and reduces mortality risk.
A study of 151 adult orthopaedic trauma patients found that one in five obtained narcotic prescriptions from multiple providers, leading to increased drug use and longer prescription durations. Patients who 'doctor shopped' used narcotics four times longer than those with single provider care.
A literature review published in JAAOS found that patients' activity levels are a strong predictor for orthopedic outcomes. The study highlights the importance of considering activity level when deciding treatment options, as more active patients may be at higher risk of re-injury after surgery.
New study finds orthopedic surgeries for patients aged 80+ generally safe, with significant decreases in mortality and complication rates. Spinal fusion, total knee replacement, and total hip replacement procedures show improved outcomes in patients without comorbidities.
A new study links opioid pain relievers to less improvement and higher levels of dissatisfaction following spine surgery. Patients who used opioids before surgery had worse health outcomes at 3 and 12 months post-op, according to a study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery.
A study found that the number of total knee replacement surgeries more than tripled between 1993 and 2009, with a 95% increase attributed to obesity. Younger patients experienced a greater rise in overweight and obesity, leading to a surge in knee replacements.
Researchers are working on bionic arms with full motor and sensory function to treat veterans with upper extremity amputations. While advancements have been made, challenges remain in creating prostheses that meet the abilities of a human arm and hand.
A recent study found that obesity is associated with longer hospital stays and higher costs for total knee replacement patients, regardless of comorbidities. The study analyzed data from over 8,000 patients and found that every 5-unit increase in BMI beyond 30 kg/m² resulted in higher hospitalization costs and longer hospital stays.
Researchers found that universal neuromuscular training for high school and college-age athletes significantly reduced ACL injuries by 63%. The study also showed that implementing such a program would save an average of $275 per player, per season in injury-related costs, making it a cost-effective preventative measure.
A recent study found a 10-fold increase in UCL reconstruction among youth athletes, with year-round play contributing to the rise. Experts recommend preventing overuse injuries by following recommended guidelines, including pitch count limits and adequate rest. Early recognition of symptoms is also crucial to prevent unnecessary surgery.
A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that economic downturns did not significantly impact the growth trends for hip and knee arthroplasty in the US. The study's results support previous projections, indicating a recession-proof demand for total joint replacement through at least 2021.
The study found that approximately 2.5 million Americans are living with an artificial hip and 4.7 million with a knee replacement, highlighting the need for ongoing patient care. The prevalence of total hip and knee replacements among adults aged 50 and older is as high as 2.3% and 4.6%, respectively.
A new study suggests that gastric bypass surgery can diminish knee pain in obese patients without osteoarthritis, with improvements comparable to those achieved through knee replacement surgery. Patients who underwent bariatric surgery reported significant reductions in knee pain and physical function at one-year follow-up.
A new study found that universal neuromuscular training for adolescent athletes can reduce ACL injuries by 63%, making it the most cost-effective strategy. The program's estimated cost is approximately $1.25 per day, saving $275 per player per season.
A study of obese orthopedic trauma patients found higher rates of complications and increased healthcare costs, but surprisingly lower injury severity scores compared to non-obese counterparts. The research revealed that obese patients required longer hospital stays and more intensive care unit admissions.
Obese children are more likely to suffer from distal radius fractures and experience complications related to healing. Surgical pinning at the onset of fracture may ensure faster and more effective healing for these patients.
A study published by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is more effective than cortisone injections in treating severe chronic hip bursitis. PRP provided short- and long-term pain relief, with significant improvements in patient function.
Researchers found a positive association between age and performance on the digit symbol substitution test, but no significant link with years of football participation. The study suggests that playing football is not inherently detrimental to neurocognitive function.
A new study found that extreme sports like skateboarding and snowboarding have the highest risk of severe head and neck injuries. Concussions were the most common injury, with a higher risk in snowboarding and skateboarding. The Academy recommends helmet use for safer participation.
Researchers assessed 1,095 patients following acute fractures and found poor sleep independently associated with poor emotional status. Orthopaedic surgeons should monitor patient mental health and counsel patients on sleep expectations to provide highest level of care after fracture treatment.
A new study evaluated the outcomes of Charnley total hip replacements in patients under 50 years old at least 35 years post-surgery. The results showed that a significant number of these patients had functional hip components, despite decreased activity levels over time, primarily due to age and health-related factors.
Researchers discovered varied gene expression patterns between male and female athletes, with altered signaling pathways regulating cartilage growth. The findings suggest genetics may play a role in the higher incidence of ACL injuries among females.
A study found that outpatient and inpatient orthopaedic surgeries have comparable outcomes, with patients receiving outpatient care having slightly higher readmission rates. The researchers emphasized the importance of appropriate patient selection for outpatient surgery to minimize complications.
A study of 28 shoulder replacement patients found that their driving skills improved significantly at 12 weeks post-surgery, with a decrease in simulator collisions. Patients who drove less than 1,800 miles per year incurred more collisions, suggesting that long-distance driving may be safe earlier
A study analyzing 301,718 revision total knee replacement surgeries found that periprosthetic joint infections were the most common reason for failure, occurring in 25% of patients. Mechanical loosening was also a significant cause of failure, accounting for 18.5% of cases.
A new study reveals that back surgery can increase average annual earnings by $1,925 compared to non-surgical treatments, as well as reduce missed workdays by three per year. The research suggests that surgery is a cost-effective solution for patients with herniated discs, resulting in savings of over $5,000 over a four-year period.
The Kappa Delta Sorority and OREF presented four research awards to scientists making breakthroughs in musculoskeletal health. Winners included researchers studying muscle atrophy and its effects on patients with rotator cuff tears, as well as those investigating anatomic ACL reconstruction and the natural history of rotator cuff disease.
A study found that postoperative 'doctor shopping' is associated with longer narcotic use and more prescriptions among orthopaedic trauma patients. The researchers discovered a strong link between preoperative narcotic use and increased doctor shopping behavior.
A study found that total joint replacement (TJR) reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, or other 'cardiovascular events' in patients with moderate-to-severe arthritis. This may be due to increased mobility and physical activity levels, which have a positive impact on cardiovascular health.
Research reviewed injuries in top Italian football league during 2011-2012 season, finding 23 injuries on artificial turf and 20 on grass. Muscle strains were the most common injury on both surfaces, with only minor differences between their causes.
Researchers found that statins significantly reduced VTE events following total hip and knee replacements, with a 48% lower risk compared to non-statin groups. The study, which included over 400 patients, suggests that statins may have anti-inflammatory effects that contribute to their ability to decrease VTE risk.
Research suggests that patients with metabolic syndrome are more likely to experience complications after total joint replacement surgery. Obesity is a significant factor in postoperative complications, with risks increasing for those with a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or higher.
A study of 43,543 THRs found complication rates similar to younger patients among nonagenarians, with higher mortality rates within 90 days. The authors concluded that THR can be safely performed in this population.
A study of 546 senior athletes found that genetics may play a role in preserving hip joints, with 72% of hips with FAI showing little to no evidence of OA. Most hips with signs of FAI will not develop osteoarthritis, suggesting other factors like cartilage type may contribute to joint health.
Following Tommy John surgery, MLB pitchers show significant improvement in performance, including reduced walks and hits per inning pitched. 83% of patients successfully return to professional play, extending their careers by an average of 3.9 years.
A study of 80 post-menopausal women found that those with distal radius fractures had decreased strength, particularly in chair stand and grip tests, compared to similar patients without fractures. This may indicate an early decrease in physical performance level.
Chronic musculoskeletal pain affects an estimated 100 million Americans, with low back pain and degenerative joint processes being common causes. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are not effective in many chronic pain scenarios, but antidepressants and anticonvulsants can provide remarkable relief.
A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that obese children are at a higher risk of developing complex elbow fractures and experiencing postoperative complications. The study, which included over 350 patients aged 2-11, highlights the importance of early exercise and bone strengthening to prevent such issues.
A novel study found that a single stem cell injection following meniscus knee surgery can provide significant pain relief and aid in meniscus regrowth. The treatment showed no 'clinically important' safety issues, with some patients experiencing strong improvement in pain and meniscal regrowth.