Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Study provides greater understanding of lyme disease-causing bacteria

Researchers analyzed joint fluid samples from patients with Lyme arthritis, identifying bacterial strains and finding correlations between OspC typing and clinical outcomes. The study suggests that certain B. burgdorferi genotypes, particularly RST1, may induce a more marked immune response leading to persistent joint inflammation.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJun 30, 2009

Research proves tai chi benefits for arthritis

A new study by The George Institute for International Health found Tai Chi to have positive effects on improving pain and disability among arthritis sufferers. Researchers are now conducting a trial to establish if similar benefits can be seen in people with chronic low back pain.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalBMC Musculoskeletal Disorders·DateJun 16, 2009

Tai chi improves pain in arthritis sufferers

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that Tai Chi decreases pain in people with arthritis, improving physical function and quality of life. Additionally, it is an inexpensive, convenient, and enjoyable form of exercise that conveys psychological and social benefits.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJun 1, 2009

Development of DNA drugs gives hope to lupus patients

Researchers have developed DNA-like compounds that effectively inhibit cells responsible for chronic autoimmune condition lupus. The compounds, known as class R inhibitory oligonucleotides (INH-ODNs), selectively reduce the activity of autoreactive B cells and dendritic cells, delaying death and reducing kidney damage in mice with lupus.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateMay 27, 2009

Women with arthritis more likely than men to stop working

A new study found that women with arthritis are more likely to leave the workforce, while men may be more likely to remain working and report negative experiences. The study analyzed data from over 9,000 individuals aged 25-64 and found that greater education was associated with being in the labor force for both men and women.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateApr 30, 2009

Researchers identify cell group key to Lyme disease arthritis

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows that natural killer (NK) T cells play a crucial role in preventing chronic inflammatory infection and clearing Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria, which cause Lyme disease. The research demonstrates that NK T cells are central to reducing arthritis symptoms.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 3, 2008

Oral prednisolone can be used to treat gout

A randomized clinical trial found that oral prednisolone is clinically equivalent to naproxen in reducing pain and inflammation in patients with gout. The study suggests that prednisolone could be a safer alternative for treating gout, with potential economic benefits due to reduced healthcare costs.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 29, 2008

Physical activity is natural pain reliever for arthritis

A recent study published in Arthritis Care and Research journal found that regular exercise, specifically the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program, significantly improves and manages arthritis pain. Participants reported a decrease in pain and fatigue, an increase in upper and lower extremity function, and increased strength after par...

SourceArthritis Foundation·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateApr 8, 2008

A regular dip could benefit fibromyalgia sufferers

A recent study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy found that patients with fibromyalgia who participated in supervised training exercises in warm water experienced reduced symptoms and improved health-related quality of life. This cost-effective approach may offer a promising alternative to traditional treatments.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateFeb 21, 2008

Exercise program improves symptoms in arthritis patients

The study evaluated the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program's effects on managing arthritis through exercise. The results showed significant improvements in pain, fatigue, and physical function, with continued benefits when participants maintained program participation at home.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJan 4, 2008

Antibody responses in patients with Lyme arthritis

Researchers found that joint inflammation persists in patients with antibiotic-refractory Lyme arthritis, despite the spirochetes being killed. Antibody titers declined to similar levels after 4-6 months of antibiotic therapy, regardless of treatment response.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateNov 29, 2007

Knee arthritis link to lung cancer

Research found knee monoarthritis in 296 patients (4.4%) with rheumatic disorders, a rare condition associated with operable non-small cell lung cancer. The disease is challenging to treat unless caught early, and the discovery provides new insights into potential early warning signs.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateSep 3, 2007

Hip and knee replacements rarely performed in patients over 100

A new study found that hip and knee replacements are rarely performed in patients over 100 due to concerns about short-term life expectancy. However, the research suggests that these procedures should not be denied solely based on age and that the benefits may outweigh the risks.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJul 30, 2007

Race plays a role in disability in older adults with arthritis

A new study found that racial disparities play a significant role in the development of disability among older adults with arthritis. The study, which included over 7,200 respondents, showed that African Americans and Hispanic/Spanish groups experienced significantly higher rates of disability compared to whites.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJul 30, 2007

Study shows surgery is more effective than other treatments for common back problem

A new study shows surgery significantly improves results for patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis and spinal stenosis compared to non-surgical alternatives. Surgery provides quick relief from symptoms and improved function, especially within six weeks after the procedure.

The economic impact of arthritis on the United States

The study found a significant increase in arthritis prevalence from 36.8 million to 46.1 million adults between 1997 and 2003. Medical expenditures for prescription drugs almost doubled during this period, while inpatient expenditures declined, resulting in stable total medical care spending for individuals with arthritis.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateApr 27, 2007

1 out of every 3 arthritis sufferers is affected in ability to work

A new study estimates that 6.9 million US adults have arthritis-attributable work limitation (AAWL), with 1 in 20 working age adults reporting AAWL, and 1 in 3 among those with arthritis. Adults with AAWL have poor physical health and function, including high body mass index, joint pain, and frequent doctor's office visits.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateMar 29, 2007

Just keep moving, ladies

Women in their 70s who engage in moderate physical activity may reduce their risk of developing frequent arthritis symptoms. The study found that increasing exercise to 2 ½ hours per week can further decrease the likelihood of these symptoms appearing.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateMar 28, 2007

Assessing the cost of juvenile arthritis

A study found that children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis had significant direct medical costs, including $1,686 per year. The study also highlighted the importance of long-term medical and social costs in resource allocation.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJan 31, 2007

Molecular anatomy of influenza virus detailed

Scientists at NIH/National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases have successfully imaged the influenza virus using electron tomography, revealing five distinct types of particles. This breakthrough provides insight into the virus's structure and potential targets for vaccine development.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 29, 2006

Understanding what people with arthritis believe about exercise

Despite well-documented exercise benefits, individuals with arthritis face various barriers, including pain, lack of support, and limited facilities. To overcome these challenges, healthcare professionals can prescribe exercise, expand arthritis-specific programs, and emphasize adaptations for physical limitations.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJul 27, 2006

JCI table of contents: January 12, 2006

Researchers found that leptin blockade improved clinical symptoms of disease, slowed progression, reduced relapses, and reduced antigen-specific T cells in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Additionally, the study suggests that leptin neutralization may be a potential way to treat multiple sclerosis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 12, 2006

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Arthritis Foundation introduce pediatric rheumatic diseases CD-ROM

The new CD-ROM provides a wide range of resources, including patient education brochures, professional educational materials, and web links to numerous useful resources. The CD-ROM has been overwhelmingly approved by healthcare professionals, who will use it to better understand and manage childhood rheumatic diseases.

New word for on-the-job health problem: 'presenteeism'

Researchers at Cornell University Institute for Health and Productivity Studies estimate that presenteeism costs companies up to 60% of total worker illness expenses. Common conditions such as allergies, headaches, and mental health problems incur significant on-the-job productivity losses.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateApr 20, 2004