Articles tagged with Ankles
Researchers discovered that chameleons have twice the number of wrist and ankle skeletal elements than previously thought, enabling greater rotation and flexibility. This adaptation allowed species to leave ground cover and occupy trees, revolutionizing their climbing ability.
The Low Risk Ankle Rule reduces unnecessary radiation exposure and healthcare costs for children with ankle injuries. Implementing the rule leads to a 22.9% decrease in x-ray orders and $36.93 less in healthcare costs.
A new study shows that using silicone ankle sleeves and lace-up braces during sports participation can improve neuromuscular control in athletes. This improvement was observed in tests such as the drop vertical jump and timed cutting maneuvers, without negatively influencing athletic performance measures.
Collegiate women wearing high heels regularly developed an imbalance of 4 functional ankle muscles, strengthening at first but leading to imbalance and increased risk of injury. Regular ankle strengthening exercises and limiting high heel wear are recommended as preventative measures.
A new study from Oregon State University found that injury prevention programs are not widely used in high school soccer and basketball teams, despite their benefits. Only 21% of coaches were using a program, and most reported using similar activities but not an official program.
A new study reveals that the oldest primate ancestors lived in trees, accessing food sources unavailable to ground-dwelling species. The discovery provides evidence of arboreal life evolving early in the history of primates, with Purgatorius, a tiny tree shrew-like creature, being estimated to have weighed about 3.5 ounces.
Researchers found evidence of arboreality playing a key role in primate evolution, suggesting subtle changes allowed for easier navigation and better access to food in the trees. The discovery challenges traditional textbook illustrations and provides the oldest fossil evidence to date for this concept.
A study of 749 postmenopausal women found that ankle fractures were associated with lower areal BMD and altered bone microstructure, similar to forearm fractures. These findings suggest that ankle fractures should be considered osteoporotic fractures in fracture risk assessment.
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.
Researchers found that sutures with stem cells led to quicker and stronger healing of Achilles tendon tears compared to traditional sutures. The study showed improved tendon strength and reduced risk of rerupture in rats, suggesting potential benefits for human patients.
A new study finds that participating in high-self-disclosure activities, such as double dates, can increase feelings of passionate love in relationships. The researchers also found that the responsiveness of other couples to personal disclosure predicts the increase in passionate love.
A soft wearable robot developed by Carnegie Mellon University researchers enables natural motions in the ankle, aiding patients with ankle-foot disorders. The device uses soft plastics and pneumatic artificial muscles to achieve a range of motion similar to a normal walking gait.
Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding human walking by identifying two phases: alleviation and launching. The ankle tendons release stored elastic energy to propel the leg forward with minimal energy loss.
A study found that wearing high heels while running leads to increased knee motion, joint forces, and risk of ankle sprains. Regular use may contribute to osteoarthritis in the knees.
Researchers used the Anklebot robot to characterize the normal mechanics of the joint in healthy volunteers, finding that the ankle is strongest when moving up and down and weakest when turning inward. The findings may help clinicians better understand physical limitations caused by strokes and other motor disorders.
Researchers at Michigan Technological University have developed a microprocessor-controlled ankle-foot prosthesis that mimics the intricate range of motion of the human ankle. This prosthetic can move on two axes, incorporating a side-to-side roll and raising the toe up and down, making walking more natural and reducing the risk of falls.
A new clinical trial finds that a simple low-risk ankle rule can significantly reduce the use of radiography for children's ankle injuries, lowering exposure to radiation and healthcare costs. The Low Risk Ankle Rule has potential broad applicability to emergency departments worldwide.
A case study reported by Jeong Pyo Seo et al. in Neural Regeneration Research (2013) highlights the importance of investigating delayed gait recovery in stroke patients who cannot walk within 3-6 months after onset. The patient, a 32-year-old female, showed improved gait function despite severe spasticity and sensory-motor dysfunction.
A new study published in Foot & Ankle International found a 28.8% decline in lower extremity amputations over the past decade, with advances in diabetic foot ulcer treatments contributing to this decrease. The number of orthopaedic claims for diabetic foot ulcers rose 143.3% during the same period.
The KASCADE-Grande experiment detected a bend in the energy spectrum of high-energy cosmic rays at different energies for light and heavy particles. The study reveals a flattening of the spectrum beyond the knee, indicating extragalactic acceleration, with the ankle structure appearing first in light primary particles.
A study of 406 patients found that male athletes, particularly those who engage in sports like basketball and tennis, are at a higher risk of Achilles tendon ruptures. The majority of these injuries occur during sporting activities, and delayed diagnosis can lead to poorer outcomes. Orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons emphasize the imp...
A new study presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons meeting shows that 13 out of 14 wounded warriors returned to combat after completing the Return to Run orthotic rehab initiative. The program successfully restored functional and occupational capabilities, including walking, running, and standing for long periods.
A study published in PNAS found that modern humans with feet adapted for terrestrial bipedalism can still climb trees effectively. Researchers observed extreme dorsiflexion and longer muscle fibers in climbing individuals, challenging the idea that a terrestrially adapted foot excludes arboreal behavior.
Researchers found that thromboembolic events following ankle fracture surgery are uncommon, with most patients experiencing no complications. The study suggests that surgical treatment for ankle fractures does not significantly increase the risk of blood clots or pulmonary embolism.
Researchers discovered that osteoarthritic knee joints have a constant state of repair, while hip joints do not. This suggests different treatment strategies may be needed for knee and hip osteoarthritis. A biomarker was identified to measure joint degeneration and repair response.
A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that itching sensations vary by body site, with the ankles and backs exhibiting greater intensity and longer-lasting relief through scratching. Researchers suggest specific nerve fibers may be involved in pleasure-related sensations.
Researchers analyzed ankle ligament movements and strains during the jump shot, finding that landing causes additional stress on ligaments. The study suggests improved training techniques can reduce injury risk, benefiting junior players.
Researchers found that people with previous ankle injuries tend to move their hips and knees differently when landing, which may contribute to re-injury. The study provides new insights into the role of joint movements in ankle sprains.
Residents who attend conferences focusing on missed cases exhibit lower error rates when interpreting x-ray images. The study found a significant reduction in discrepancies from 55 to 18 major errors after the conference became part of the resident education program.
A series of papers on Australopithecus sediba reveals a surprisingly unique combination of advanced features, including a modern pelvis and evolved hand. The findings suggest that Au.sediba is the best candidate for the genus Homo.
Australopithecus sediba fossils display both primitive and human-like traits, challenging long-standing theories about human evolution. The discovery of well-preserved hand and foot bones provides insights into the species' tool-making abilities.
Studies show that ankle brachial index can help identify individuals at high risk of cardiovascular events, while bifurcated prostheses on aorto-iliac lesions may improve PAD treatment outcomes. Early detection and intervention are crucial to managing PAD and preventing serious consequences.
Strains and sprains account for over a third of lower extremity injuries treated at emergency departments. An 'ankle hotline' could spare valuable ER time and resources by providing alternative care options.
A study of 1,460 male and female basketball players found that lace-up ankle braces significantly reduced acute ankle injuries by more than three times. The use of braces was effective for both experienced and inexperienced athletes, suggesting a viable option for injury prevention.
A new study finds that hips provide most of the power during walking, but ankles dominate during running. This discovery could inform the design of assistive devices and prosthetics for humans.
Biomechanics researchers studied helmeted guinea fowl's movement strategies on slippery and rough surfaces to understand how animals respond to unexpected changes in their habitat. They found that speed, foot position, and body alignment are key factors in preventing slips and falls.
A recent study has found that hardening of the arteries significantly increases the risk of mortality, with asymptomatic cases doubling the risk. The researchers recommend a simple ankle-brachial index test as a standard diagnostic tool for elderly patients.
Patients with stage IV flat foot deformity experience improved alignment, reduced arthritis, and enhanced mobility after a new surgery developed at Hospital for Special Surgery. The study shows promising results, including the maintenance of correction nine years post-surgery.
Researchers at the University of Michigan developed an artificial foot that recycles energy wasted in between steps, reducing energy spent per step by 14% compared to conventional prosthetic feet. This innovation could significantly improve walking efficiency for individuals with lower limb amputations.
Research in the Foot & Ankle Specialist journal found that Achilles tendon ruptures can be career-altering injuries for NFL players. Nearly 36% of players who sustained this injury never returned to play in the NFL, with those who did return experiencing a significant reduction in power ratings.
Developed by Arizona State University researchers, SPARKy is a smart, active, and energy-storing below-the-knee prosthetic that enables users to walk on various surfaces and navigate stairs. The device uses regenerative kinetics to store energy as the wearer walks, allowing for enhanced ankle motion and reduced fatigue.
Researchers discovered that sucker-footed bats of Madagascar use wet adhesion to attach themselves to surfaces, ruling out suction as the primary method. The finding helps scientists understand how these small creatures live in the wild and sheds light on the evolutionary relationship between two similar bat species.
A new review article highlights the importance of detailed diagnosis for talus fractures, which are commonly misdiagnosed due to complex anatomy and subtle radiographic clues. By recognizing these injuries and providing targeted treatment, patients can avoid permanent disability and improve outcomes.
Researchers found that sprinters have significantly shorter lever arms in their ankles compared to non-sprinters. This allows muscles to produce greater force without sacrificing speed. The study suggests that a unique foot structure is essential for sprinting success, with longer toes providing an additional advantage.
A study found that measuring ankle circulation using a blood pressure cuff can identify asymptomatic peripheral artery disease in stroke and TIA survivors, who are at higher risk of subsequent cerebrovascular events. The test, called ABI measurement, is easily performed in under 15 minutes and detected PAD in 26% of survivors.
The Journal of Foot & Ankle Surgery has been accepted for coverage by multiple Thomson Reuters services, including Journal Citation Reports. Abstracting and indexing will begin with Volume 47:1 (2008), supporting the journal's mission to advance practitioner competency and enhance patient care.
The Foot & Ankle Specialist journal has been accepted for inclusion in the MEDLINE database, providing researchers and clinicians with improved access to high-quality studies on foot and ankle treatments. This acceptance aims to enhance the dissemination of techniques and advancements in foot and ankle care.
Two new techniques using lab-grown cells have shown promise in treating ankle injuries that don't respond to initial treatment. Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) eliminate the need for osteotomy in some cases, reducing morbidity.
Several insurance companies deny coverage for ankle replacements despite FDA approval, citing a flawed meta-analysis from earlier studies. Orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Michael Pinzur questions the logic behind this decision, arguing that it undermines patient choice and access to reasonable treatment options.
Chronic ankle pain is a common issue that may not resolve on its own after an initial injury. Tendon injuries to the peroneal tendons are now recognized as a possible cause of chronic pain. Early diagnosis and treatment can alleviate symptoms, and imaging techniques like MRI or ultrasound can help identify the condition.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that a short period of immobilization with a below-knee cast results in faster recovery from severe ankle sprains compared to other treatments. The authors recommend using a 10-day below-knee cast or an Aircast brace for management.
A meta-analysis found the ankle brachial index (ABI) improves accuracy of cardiovascular risk prediction by identifying individuals at high risk for atherosclerosis. The ABI may help modify treatment recommendations in approximately 19% of men and 36% of women.
The debut issue of Foot & Ankle Specialist features a 3-step treatment plan for patients with diabetic foot infections, recommending tissue removal followed by comprehensive assessment and restructuring. This approach can help prevent limb loss, enabling practitioners to provide the best current diagnosis and therapy.
Researchers at MIT have created an exoskeleton device to lighten the burden of heavy backpacks, transferring weight to the ground. The prototype successfully takes on 80% of an 80-pound load but impairs natural walking gait.
Researchers at ASU and Walter Reed Army Medical Center are creating a smart, active, and energy-storing transtibial prosthesis called SPARKy. The device has been shown to amplify motor power by three-fold in experiments with able-bodied subjects, enabling it to revolutionize prosthetics for military personnel and others.
A recent study found female athletes tend to land from a jump with a more flexed ankle and experience greater knee abduction and internal rotation compared to male athletes. This increased risk of non-contact ACL injury during landing may be explained by differences in joint motion and loads between women and men when fatigued.
The ankle exoskeleton helps patients regain limb function, and users can learn to walk with it in about 30 minutes. After three days, their nervous system retained control over the device.
Researchers at Harvard University found that the dynamic elastic and dampening roles of ankles, feet, and other distal extremities help legged animals maintain stability on uneven terrain after stumbling. By modulating limbs dynamically, selectively, and quickly, animals can recover from falls and maintain forward momentum.
A study found that sonographically guided injections of steroid and anesthetic can quickly alleviate symptoms in professional soccer players with posterior ankle impingement. The treatment, which uses imaging guidance to target specific areas of pain, showed promising results in a small group of athletes.
Researchers found Pycnogenol to be more effective than Daflon in reducing leg swelling, walking pain, and skin alterations. The study showed a significant reduction in ankle swellings and edema scores with Pycnogenol supplementation.