Articles tagged with Joints
A new measure ranks US hospitals based on complications following hip and knee replacements, revealing a significant four-fold difference in risk-adjusted complication rates. The study found no disparities in outcomes between hospitals caring for higher proportions of Medicaid-eligible or black patients.
A traditional Chinese herbal remedy, Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F, has been shown to be as effective as methotrexate in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Combining the herbal remedy with methotrexate resulted in improved outcomes for patients, including significant reductions in disease activity and remission rates.
Prolotherapy injections have shown substantial improvement in knee osteoarthritis symptoms, including pain, function, and stiffness. Patients experienced symptom improvement ranging from 19.5-42.9% compared to baseline status.
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.
A new study by Mayo Clinic reveals that CT scans are effective in detecting uric acid crystals around joints, particularly in patients with multiple gout-like flares. Accurate diagnosis is crucial as gout patients require different medication than those with other forms of inflammatory arthritis.
Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery found that patients who lose weight after hip or knee replacement have better clinical outcomes, including improved function and activity levels. Meanwhile, patients who gain weight experience inferior outcomes, highlighting the importance of maintaining good health and a suitable weight.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute found a gene called stumble that helps detect leg-joint angles in fruit flies, similar to human nerve cells. This discovery could improve understanding and treatment of balance and limb movement disorders.
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 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 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 found that a lower ratio between the length of the index and ring fingers is associated with a higher risk of developing severe osteoarthritis in the knees. This association was stronger for total knee replacements than hip replacements, suggesting hormonal influences may play a role.
A new study by Mercyhurst University, UPMC Hamot, and Shriners Hospitals for Children is exploring the correlation between pitch count and throwing arm injuries. The researchers will use high-speed motion-capture cameras, shoulder muscle power tests, and biomarkers to analyze the effects of consecutive pitches on fatigue.
A multicenter study found a mobile compression device to be as effective as blood thinners in preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after lower extremity joint replacement surgery. The device improved blood flow and had no negative side effects, making it an equally safe alternative to blood thinners.
Researchers developed antibiotic-containing microspheres to prevent implant-associated bone infections. The study found that coated implants prevented infection in 100% of specimens, while uncoated ones showed a 64% infection rate.
Scientists from the University of Manchester identified Leri's pleonosteosis as caused by extra genetic material on chromosome 8. The condition is also linked to scleroderma and offers opportunities for understanding and treating both diseases.
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.
Researchers at Scripps Florida Institute developed a compound that dramatically reduces joint inflammation in animal models of rheumatoid arthritis. The study showed the compound, SR2211, blocked symptoms and bone erosion in mice within eight to ten days of treatment.
Researchers found compelling evidence that gout clusters in families, with a significant increase in risk for those with first and second-degree relatives affected. The study also highlights the role of shared environmental factors, such as diet and lifestyle, in predisposing individuals to gout.
A Vanderbilt University study found nearly half of orthopaedic surgeons sustain injuries during their careers, with inadequate resources available to them. The study also revealed that 38% of respondents reported no institutional resources, leading to increased lost productivity.
Recent advances in robotics enable the creation of prosthetics that mimic natural movement, allowing users to navigate stairs and uneven ground with reduced stress. Studies have shown improved walking speed, decreased energy expenditure, and reduced fall rates compared to passive prostheses.
Researchers have developed a squishy gel that releases an anti-inflammatory drug when compressed, like a painful knee joint. The new material could deliver medications on-demand to alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
A new study reveals that rising rates of obesity among young adults are contributing to an increase in knee replacement surgeries. Younger patients are more obese and experience the same level of pain and functional disability as older patients, according to researchers at UMass Chan Medical School.
Researchers discovered that abnormal citrullination in rheumatoid joints is linked to pore-forming pathways in cell membranes. These pathways, called perforin and complement, are normally used by the immune system to fight pathogens, but their disruption produces enzyme-activating imbalances of calcium ions.
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.
Early, aggressive drug treatment shows promising results in patients with psoriatic arthritis, reducing joint damage and disability. A £550,000 clinical trial involving over 200 patients found significant improvements in joint and skin outcomes with tight control of disease activity.
New findings show STELARA significantly inhibits structural damage progression at week 24 and maintains effect through two years. Treatment with STELARA results in reduced total psoriatic arthritis modified vdH-S scores compared to placebo.
A new study from Hospital for Special Surgery found that achieving low disease activity within six months significantly reduces disability at two years. Patients who reached this state had better functional ability and fewer joint damages compared to those who delayed treatment.
EPFL scientists have created a hydrogel that promotes cartilage regeneration by delivering therapeutic drugs in response to mechanical stimulation. This method has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of joint injuries and degenerative conditions such as arthritis.
A new study by Rush University Medical Center found that mobility shoes significantly reduced knee loading in osteoarthritis patients, even after the shoes were no longer worn. The study suggests that footwear choice may be an important consideration in managing knee osteoarthritis.
The 2013 classification criteria for systemic sclerosis are more sensitive than the 1980 measures, enabling earlier identification and treatment of this autoimmune disease. The new criteria improve the classification of systemic sclerosis by clustering items and simplifying the weighting of different criteria.
A recent study found that using DVDs, booklets, and health coaches can help patients arrive at an informed treatment decision within their first visit with an orthopaedic surgeon. The study showed a significant increase in patient confidence in knowing what questions to ask their doctor, leading to better shared medical decision making.
Researchers will validate new MRI techniques and biomarkers to identify early stages of osteoarthritis and test therapies for prevention. The study aims to develop biomarkers that reflect joint environment changes predictive of arthritis development.
A study led by University of East Anglia found that sulforaphane in broccoli slows down cartilage destruction and osteoarthritis. Researchers hope to replicate the effect in humans through a small-scale trial.
A new study highlights the economic benefits of knee replacement surgery, finding that patients can save nearly $40,000 in indirect costs, resulting in lifetime societal savings of $10,000-$30,000. The study estimates that total knee replacement surgeries will exceed 3 million by 2030 due to an aging population.
A randomized clinical trial found that calcium and vitamin D supplementation did not reduce joint pain or swelling in postmenopausal women. The study analyzed data from the Women's Health Initiative calcium plus vitamin D supplementation trial, which included 1,911 participants.
Duke University researchers identified TRPV4 as a critical protein contributing to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD) pain. The study found that inhibiting TRPV4 reduced bite force and pain, suggesting it may be an attractive target for developing new treatments.
Researchers from the University of Leicester show that insect limbs can move without muscles, using a close interplay of neuronal control and passive joint forces. This finding may provide engineers with new ways to improve robotic and prosthetic limb control.
Researchers have found a naturally occurring molecule, Urocortin, which protects cells in the joints from being destroyed in osteoarthritis. The discovery could lead to the development of new medicines to prevent joint degradation.
A study found that knee shape can affect ACL reconstruction decisions after a tear. Knees with more stable shapes, such as deeper tibial plateaus and less concave areas, may not require surgery. This discovery could help clinicians identify patients who can skip ACL reconstruction.
Patients with Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (SJIA) who received canakinumab successfully tapered off corticosteroids, achieving a CS-free status in 42 out of 128 patients. This reduction in corticosteroid use has significant long-term health benefits for children suffering from SJIA.
A new study by McGill University researchers suggests that the nervous system and nerve-growth factor (NGF) play a major role in arthritis. The findings support the idea that reducing elevated NGF levels may be an important strategy for developing treatment of arthritis pain.
A new study demonstrates the efficacy of a radiographic scoring method to evaluate joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis, revealing progressive destruction even under TNF-blocking therapies. Patients with pre-existing damage showed significant increases in joint damage, highlighting the importance of early and accurate evaluation.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that patients with gout who initially experience pain in other joints, such as the knee or elbow, are at higher risk of future flare-ups. Additionally, chronic blood pressure variability and smoking are linked to increased cardiovascular risk in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
A retrospective study found that higher numbers of lumbar epidural steroid injections (LESI) were associated with increased risk of bone fragility and vertebral fractures. Patients at high risk for fractures include older women, those who have had an earlier fracture, smokers, and underweight individuals.
A large multi-generational family study has identified a genetic mutation that increases the risk of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The researchers found a common variant co-inherited by all affected family members, which may affect cartilage formation and delay development.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that blocking critical bone regulation protein halts OA progression in mice, suggesting a new therapeutic approach to joint replacement surgery. The theory proposes that initial harm to cartilage causes excessive bone growth, leading to disease exacerbation.
Researchers have developed a blood test that can detect allergies to nickel, cobalt, and bone cement, allowing patients to avoid miserable reactions and expensive revisions. The new test is expected to be widely used in the next couple of years, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
Researchers found that pro-factor D, a protein secreted by fat cells in the knee joint, is linked to rheumatoid arthritis. The discovery could lead to new gene therapies to eliminate the protein and prevent disease progression.
A team of researchers has developed a new synthetic polymer supplement that mimics natural synovial fluid, providing superior lubrication and reducing wear on cartilage surfaces. The biopolymer remains in the joint for more than two weeks, unlike current treatments which last only one or two days.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a flexible robotic arm inspired by the seahorse's tail, which can be compressed to 50% of its size without permanent damage. The design uses bony plates that slide past each other, providing exceptional flexibility and protection.
Research by University of Exeter scientists reveals that hydrogen sulfide gas reduces inflammation and swelling in arthritic joints. The study suggests H2S-based compounds may be effective in treating arthritis without uncomfortable side effects.
Researchers used atomic force microscopy to measure the mechanical properties of single cells in articular cartilage. They found that vimentin protein plays a key role in maintaining cell integrity, and that adult tissue has higher mechanical properties than young or old tissue.
Orthopedic surgery faces challenges with obese patients due to increased risk of complications, poor nutrition, and diminished treatment outcomes. Weight loss is recommended for pre-joint replacement surgery to improve outcomes.
Researchers found that mobility shoes significantly reduced knee loading and improved gait in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Long-term use of the shoes helped participants adapt their walking pattern, leading to a 18% reduction in knee adduction moment.
Only half of patients with hip or knee replacements reported significant improvement in pain and mobility. Patients who had worse joint pain to begin with but fewer general health problems were more likely to report benefits.
Researchers at Rhode Island Hospital have discovered a new strategy to effectively treat and prevent osteoarthritis by adding lubricin protein to joint fluid. This breakthrough finding may reduce the risk of or even prevent OA, which affects 27 million adults in the US.
A recent study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that smoking significantly increases the risk of nonunion in fractures involving long bones. The average time to fracture healing is also longer for smokers compared to nonsmokers, highlighting the negative impact of smoking on bone health.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have found that the traditional thresholds for ESR and CRP may need to be refined to improve accuracy in diagnosing periprosthetic joint infections. The study analyzed 1,993 patients and revealed differences in inflammatory marker elevation between knees and hips.
A recent study found that current and past smokers have a higher risk of hip replacement failure compared to non-smokers. The study, which reviewed records of total hip replacement patients between 2007 and 2009, found a significant correlation between smoking and increased revision rates.
A multi-center study found that total knee replacements in younger patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) last at least 10 years in 92 percent of cases. More than 75 percent of implants survived for 20 years or more, enabling many JIA patients to walk again and lead normal lives.