Articles tagged with Joints
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 new study published at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) meeting found that living in a sunny climate does not improve vitamin D levels in patients with hip fractures. The majority of patients with hip fractures had insufficient or deficient levels of vitamin D, regardless of their geographical location.
New research found that total hip and knee replacement surgeries significantly improve sexual function in 90% of patients, with women experiencing a higher rate of improvement. The study also revealed that psychological issues related to osteoarthritis were common among patients, but improved following surgery.
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.
A team of researchers from the University of the Witwatersrand analyzed the movement patterns of bipedal kangaroos and wallabies, comparing them to quadrupedal marsupials. They found that bipedal marsupials experience greater joint forces in their hind limbs, which provides insight into the structural uniqueness of these joints.
A naturally occurring protein called lubricin appears to protect against osteoarthritis, a common condition affecting over 70% of the population between 55-77 years old. Researchers found that mice with higher levels of lubricin did not develop traumatic or injury-induced osteoarthritis.
A Kaiser Permanente study of over 40,000 patients found no significant increase in surgical complications for those with diabetes. Despite previous findings suggesting a higher risk, researchers discovered better glycemic control among study participants reduced the impact of diabetes on surgery outcomes.
A prospective study found that adolescents with joint hypermobility are approximately twice as likely to develop musculoskeletal pain at these joints. The study suggests a possible genetic basis for joint hypermobility, and further investigation is warranted to determine the long-term effects of joint hypermobility on osteoarthritis risk.
Researchers developed a robotic bat wing that mimics the shape and motion of lesser dog-faced fruit bats, allowing them to measure aerodynamic forces and energy requirements. The robot showed it could match basic flight parameters of bats, producing thrust and lift.
A Case Western Reserve University researcher is creating ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene with embedded magnetic nanoparticles to monitor degradation and wear. The goal is to make implants more resistant to the environment inside the body.
Researchers at UCSB developed a new, low-cost method to detect the critical feature of 'stick-slip' friction in cartilage pads, which is more likely to cause wear and damage. This finding has potential for early detection and monitoring of osteoarthritis.
A Phase 3 clinical trial shows that tofacitinib preserves joint structure in RA patients with moderate to severe disease, reducing progression of joint erosion and narrowing. The medication is effective in treating RA symptoms and reducing the rate of joint damage, providing new evidence for its treatment.
A recent study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that obese patients with lumbar disc herniation tend to have poorer outcomes with both surgical and nonsurgical treatments. The study included 854 non-obese patients and 336 obese patients, and compared their outcomes over a four-year period.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center identified a chemokine known as monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP)-1 and its receptor, chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2), as central to the development of osteoarthritis pain. This finding could lead to new treatments for this debilitating condition.
Experts recommend developing and implementing evidence-based appropriateness criteria to prioritize patients most in need of elective procedures, such as joint replacement surgery. This could help combat increasing healthcare costs while enhancing access and quality, according to Weill Cornell researchers.
The human hand's unique shape may have evolved to stabilize the fist and produce a compact club for use in combat, according to a new study. The researchers found that the tightly packed human fist provides internal support to the digits, protecting them from damage during combat.
New IDSA guidelines provide a framework for diagnosing and treating prosthetic joint infections, which affect up to 20,000 people each year. The guidelines recommend multidisciplinary teams and evidence-based treatment, including debridement, prosthesis replacement, and amputation as last resort.
A systemic review of evidence found that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients have a higher risk of hip dislocation and infection following total joint arthroplasty, particularly hip replacement surgery. This study suggests that RA patients face increased complications compared to osteoarthritis (OA) patients.
A new study published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that computer-navigated total knee replacement had the same results as conventional procedures in terms of knee function, alignment, and durability. The study followed 520 patients for 10-12 years and found no significant differences between the two groups.
Obese patients are at a greater risk of post-surgical infections and require more follow-up surgeries following total knee replacement. The study advises well-informed obese patients to lose weight before surgery to lessen osteoarthritis symptoms and improve outcomes.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that hip resurfacing implants failed at a higher rate in women compared to men, particularly those with smaller head sizes. In contrast, men with larger femoral heads experienced comparable implant success rates to those who underwent total hip replacement.
Scientists have developed a new tantalum nanotube coating that enhances the integration of joint implants with existing bone, promoting improved biocompatibility and reducing the risk of failure. The coating also encourages bone growth and makes the implant more elastic like natural bone.
A study by University of Iowa researchers found that morbidly obese patients experience higher dislocation rates due to increased thigh girth, which creates hip instability. The team suggests surgeons modify procedures and consider new implant designs to minimize this risk.
A review of twelve studies on joint replacement surgery found no conclusive evidence for weight loss after the procedure. In fact, some patients even gained weight due to improved mobility and reduced pain.
Group Health's video-based decision aids for arthritis patients led to a sharp decline in knee and hip replacement surgeries by 38% and 26%, respectively, over six months. The cost of caring for those patients also decreased by 12-21%.
Researchers at Duke University Health System have found that mesenchymal stem cells can prevent post-traumatic arthritis in mice with fractures. The study suggests that these stem cells alter the balance of inflammation and regeneration in knee joints, thereby preventing the development of osteoarthritis.
Young athletes playing contact sports are at high risk of recurring shoulder instability injuries, often caused by traumatic contact injuries such as force or falling on an outstretched arm. Symptoms include pain, instability, and weakness in the affected shoulder.
A group of computer graphics experts led by Harvard researcher Moritz Bächer create a software tool that translates video game characters into fully articulated action figures using 3D printing. The tool optimizes joint placement, size, and location for physical constraints, producing robust and realistic printed figures.
A Cleveland Clinic research team has developed virtual models of human knee joints to study how tissues and cells respond to heavy loads. The simulations reveal that cartilage cells experience amplified deformations compared to larger scales, with a significant impact on their deformation patterns.
Researchers found that RA patients primarily cite joint pain as the reason for their perceived change in disease activity, while physicians emphasize swollen joints. The study's results suggest a discrepancy between patient and physician perceptions of disease activity, with potential implications for improved shared decision-making.
Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery demonstrate the superiority of the All-Inside, All-Epiphyseal ACL Reconstruction (AE) technique in children. The AE procedure provides great knee stability and effectively controls joint stress without risking injury to growing bones.
Rheumatoid arthritis patients face significant challenges including disability, life expectancy drops, heart attack risk, and joint destruction. Mayo Clinic researchers offer guidance on diagnosis, treatment, and management to improve outcomes for patients.
Researchers have created a novel energy harvester that can power body-monitoring devices by walking, offering a potential solution to the heavy battery burden on soldiers. The device, designed to fit onto the outside of the knee joint, generates electricity through vibrations caused by plectra plucking energy-generating arms.
Patients with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) treated with Ustekinumab 90mg achieved a 24.9% improvement in ACR50, compared to 8.7% in the placebo group. The study also showed significant improvements in DAS28-CRP responses and clinical meaningful changes in HAQ-DI.
A Phase III study found that certolizumab pegol significantly improved symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, with increased responses at both the ACR20 and PASI 75 benchmarks. The treatment also showed similar safety profiles to those observed in rheumatoid arthritis.
The June issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons highlights the negative impact of smoking on bone and joint health. Smokers face increased risks of postoperative complications and bone density loss, but preoperative counseling programs can mitigate these effects. The journal also discusses treatment option...
Researchers from the University of Missouri have developed a biomarker test that can detect and predict osteoarthritis before symptoms appear. The test uses specific proteins found in joint fluid to identify patients at risk of developing arthritis.
A recent study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that hand and wrist injuries account for a significant number of annual emergency department visits in the US. The study estimated that the total cost of these injuries is substantial, with over $2 billion spent on healthcare costs and lost productivity each year.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute found that a diverse array of regulatory T cells is necessary to prevent the immune system from generating tissue-specific inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. This diversity provides a cumulative protective effect against the disease.
A recent study published in the Journal of Women's Health found that a soy-based S-equol supplement reduced hot flash frequency by 3.09-3.66 daily and muscle/joint pain significantly compared to a standard soy isoflavone supplement. The study involved 102 US postmenopausal women who experienced high hot flash frequencies.
Researchers investigated non-emergent musculoskeletal injuries in soldiers returning from combat, finding that nearly 19% required orthopaedic consultations. Another study estimated the incidence of symptomatic venous thromboembolism after elective knee arthroscopy, revealing a relatively low risk for complications.
Researchers found DNA links between oral bacteria and failed hip or knee replacements in a study of 36 patients. The study suggests that treating periodontal disease may reduce costly joint replacements.
A new study from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons analyzes current security measures on patients who have had a total hip replacement. The authors conclude that full body scanners can be a viable option for some travelers, but may cause delays and inconveniences.
A recent study published in Radiology shows that tomosynthesis is more beneficial in diagnosing knee osteoarthritis than conventional X-ray imaging. The study detected more osteophytes and subchondral cysts in the knee joint, improving sensitivity by up to 29% and 50% respectively.
Researchers have found a new potential target for rheumatoid arthritis by developing an agent that prevents activated T cells from migrating towards the site of inflammation. The agent, PS372424, binds to a specific receptor CXCR3 on activated T cells and 'blinds' them, preventing further damage.
Scientists have identified over 100 new cases of AKU, a rare genetic disease causing osteoarthritis, in communities worldwide. The condition is more prevalent than previously thought and affects one in 250,000 people.
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.
The research will focus on lubricin, a protein that may prevent osteoarthritis following joint trauma. The study aims to advance clinical knowledge of lubricin's use in treating traumatic injuries and preventing OA development.
A new study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that online support after joint replacement surgery can save patients time and money. Patients who used web-based follow-up care reported fewer routine visits, lower travel costs, and reduced time spent on appointments.
Researchers at the Rothman Institute have found that measuring C-reactive protein in synovial fluid is extremely accurate for diagnosing PJI. The study of 2,067 cases revealed that serum white blood cell counts and PMN percentages have minimal sensitivity and specificity for infection diagnosis.
A study of 1,500 patients found that aspirin reduced the incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) by 19.2%, with no complications from aspirin use. Aspirin, combined with stockings and a foot pump, is a safe and effective therapy for preventing DVT and PE in most joint replacement patients.
The risk of pulmonary embolism following total joint replacement is highest in the first week, with most cases occurring between two to seven days post-surgery. Anticoagulation treatment beyond seven days may not be necessary, according to a recent study presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting.
A prospective study found that leukocyte esterase reagent (LE) strips can rapidly diagnose PJI, showing high sensitivity and specificity. The test is a valuable addition to the diagnostic armamentarium for PJI, providing a quick and affordable method for detecting infection in synovial fluid.
A recent study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that women and some men with non-contact ACL injuries share a common geometry on their knee joints, which may explain why women are at greater risk for ACL injuries. The study suggests that this geometry, characterized by a shorter and more rounded tibial plateau, ...
Researchers found that glucocorticoid therapy can decrease citrullination and PAD4 enzyme levels in people with rheumatoid arthritis, leading to reduced inflammation. Treatment had no effect on methotrexate, but showed promising results for RA management.
A new review article suggests that medications targeting T-cells can significantly benefit patients with psoriatic arthritis, reducing symptoms and improving joint function. Surgery may also be considered for patients with joint deformities, offering insights into outcomes and risks for those who progress to joint destruction.