Articles tagged with Joints
A major global systematic review has identified several jobs that may increase the risk of knee osteoarthritis, including agriculture, construction, and service work. The study found that workers in these industries are more likely to develop knee OA due to increased physical stress and repetitive activities.
A recent study published in Sports Medicine - Open reveals that professional soccer players experience asymptomatic cartilage and meniscus damages in their knee joints, regardless of age or career duration. The dominant leg's condition is identical to the non-dominant one, with certain tissue changes more common in experienced athletes.
A new MRI scan algorithm can detect small changes in knee joints over time, enabling researchers to develop new treatments for arthritis. The algorithm creates a three-dimensional model of an individual's knee joint and automatically identifies areas of cartilage breakdown.
Children with severe hemophilia A who receive early prophylaxis are less likely to have joint damage in young adulthood than those who begin treatment later. However, prophylaxis does not fully prevent joint damage.
The new guidelines provide a standardized protocol for imaging distal radius and tibia sites, as well as recommendations on reporting results. The guidelines aim to facilitate the comparison of results across studies by minimizing technical variation in scan acquisition and analysis.
Researchers analyzed fossil hand joints to find evidence of dual hand use in ancient humans. The discovery supports the idea that the transition to walking on two legs was gradual, with early humans using their hands for both precision grips and branch grasping.
A new Northwestern Medicine study found that strenuous exercise does not increase the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis and may even protect against it. Adults at high risk for knee OA were 30% less likely to develop OA through vigorous physical activity participation.
A new drug delivery method using light-activated vitamin B12 molecules could reduce whole-body side effects from rheumatoid arthritis treatments. The approach decreases arthritis symptoms while carrying and delivering much lower quantities of the medication.
Researchers have developed a platelet-rich plasma lysate that, when teamed with antibiotics, can eradicate bacterial biofilms common in joint infections. The therapy has shown great results in horses and may also be applied to humans and dogs.
A new study led by the University of Kent found evidence that human ancestors regularly climbed trees, based on analysis of fossil leg bones. This finding challenges previous assumptions about human evolution and suggests that a hominin species may have adopted highly flexed hip joints to facilitate climbing.
A nationwide study found that racial/ethnic minorities and individuals with lower incomes are less likely to receive office-based care for musculoskeletal conditions, while those with public insurance status are more likely to use emergency department care. This disparity contributes significantly to healthcare expenditures.
Walter and Eliza Hall Institute researchers have pinpointed immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells as an unexpected source of the inflammatory protein GM-CSF in rheumatoid arthritis. The discovery may indicate potential new therapeutic targets for reducing joint inflammation in this autoimmune disease.
Researchers evaluated patient characteristics after introduction of bundled payment program, finding no significant changes in access to hip and knee replacement for sicker patients or those at higher risk of complications. The study provides reassurance that the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement program has not led to 'cherry-p...
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in understanding the subtalar joint, revealing its mechanics and potential for improved design of joint replacements. The study used standing CT scans and digital volume correlation to analyze the joint's motion under full weight-bearing.
A new study from Aarhus University suggests that the cells in the joint of individual patients determine which medication is effective. This could lead to personalized treatment within a decade, potentially reducing years-long trial-and-error processes.
Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have discovered two proteins, IL-4 and IL-13, that prevent immune cells from attacking joints and causing inflammation. These proteins regulate neutrophil behaviour, a type of immune cell commonly found in inflamed joints.
Researchers have discovered a key to understanding the evolution of whales by analyzing the range of motion of their joints. By studying this range of motion, scientists can infer the feeding behaviors of extinct cetaceans, providing new insights into their diets and physiologies.
The study developed a comprehensive computational model of an intact knee joint to analyze the biomechanical response of soft-tissues under different meniscus conditions. The results suggested that a composite meniscal implant with a shell-core structure performed better than other options, restoring natural joint mechanics.
Research reveals disparities in physiotherapy provision across England, with patients in London and the North receiving more, while those in the South West receive less. Factors such as age, gender, and ethnicity impact access to physiotherapy, highlighting a need for parity in service provision.
Research found that individuals with long-term muscle inactivity lose more explosive strength than maximum strength. Rehabilitation programs should focus on building explosive strength to help prevent joint injuries and balance issues.
A new study by Oregon State University has provided a comprehensive, cellular-level understanding of osteoarthritis, enabling better treatment options. The research uses a sophisticated scanning technique to view loaded joints in arthritic and healthy mice, revealing key features such as tissue mechanics and cellular activity.
Researchers found that patients with rheumatic diseases have a higher proportion of culture-negative prosthetic joint infections, which can make diagnosis challenging. The study highlights the need for better diagnostic tests and management strategies for these patients.
Researchers developed a low-cost, portable OCT system that can image structures in hard-to-reach areas like joints. The device uses an endoscopic delivery system to provide real-time quantitative information on cartilage thickness without damaging the tissue.
A new study finds that gadolinium-enhanced MRI is a useful tool in diagnosing polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), with 76% sensitivity and 85% specificity. The test can also predict recurrence, with patients who developed recurrences having less enhancement of their rotator cuff tendon and more synovial hypertrophy findings.
Researchers found that methotrexate significantly reduced joint damage progression compared to placebo in patients with erosive hand osteoarthritis, while also facilitating bone remodeling. The study's findings suggest that treatment should be initiated earlier to have a positive effect on pain.
Researchers developed an injectable drug formulation using lipid nanoparticles to sustain the effect of naproxen in treating temporomandibular joint inflammation. The study showed significant reduction in inflammation and absence of side effects, making it a potential treatment option for this condition.
A new study reveals that hip and knee steroid intra-articular injections can lead to accelerated arthritis and joint destruction in some patients. Researchers found serious complications such as osteonecrosis and rapid progressive osteoarthritis in eight percent of patients who received the injections.
Researchers suggest corticosteroid injections for hip and knee osteoarthritis may be more dangerous than thought, potentially leading to rapid progressive osteoarthritis, joint collapse, and subchondral insufficiency fractures. Patients should be informed of these risks before receiving injections.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a mechanism for cartilage repair similar to salamanders' limb regeneration. Cartilage age depends on joint location, with ankles being younger, knees middle-aged, and hips older. MicroRNAs regulate this process and may be developed into arthritis medicines.
A clinical trial found that an experimental growth factor increases knee cartilage thickness, preventing further loss and pain. The therapy may be effective for higher-risk patient populations with severe pain and narrow joint space.
The study measures and sets guidelines for the use of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in bolted joints, revealing its tensile strength compared to high-strength steel. UHMWPE's unique properties make it an attractive material for various applications, including shipping, armour, and textiles.
University of Queensland researchers studied human responses to unexpected changes in environment, like falling into a hole. They found that humans use different strategies to stabilize themselves based on the drop height and utilized distal lower-limb joints such as the ankle for energy absorption at low drop heights.
Researchers at University of Missouri create 3D model showing how ligaments and joints in T. rex skull work, revealing it was stiffer than previously thought. This discovery could advance human and animal medicine by providing better models of joint interactions.
Researchers at Kanazawa University developed a new approach to optimize touch-screen setup for minimal physical workload and optimal screen visibility. The study found that taller users prefer screens installed below shoulder height, while smaller users prefer installation above elbow height.
Researchers developed a reporter system to permanently mark cells infected with chikungunya virus, revealing that marked cells containing most of the persistent RNA can survive for at least 112 days. Treatment with an antibody reduces the number of marked cells in muscle and skin.
Researchers developed a simplified computational model to predict locations susceptible to post-traumatic osteoarthritis in patients with ligament ruptures. The model identified areas prone to degeneration, suggesting potential pathways for patient-specific clinical evaluation and rehabilitation protocols.
A recent study by University of Edinburgh researchers found that nearly 20% of people waiting for hip replacements suffer from extreme pain or discomfort. The study also revealed that knee replacement patients face similar struggles, with 12% reporting severe health issues.
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland shows that health-related quality of life in people with knee osteoarthritis varies significantly among different patient groups. The study found that females, those with higher body mass index, smokers, and lower-income individuals experience rapid worsening of their quality of life, ...
Researchers found that measuring the distance between the tibial tubercle and trochlear groove using MRI can accurately predict knee instability. A TT-TG distance of 13 mm is identified as a guideline for identifying patients at risk, with further study planned to explore contributing factors.
A new mini MRI scanner uses 'magic angle' effect to visualize knee structures, helping diagnose ligament and tendon damage. The technology could reduce NHS waiting times for MRI scans and improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers at UT Austin developed a scheduling algorithm that enables patients to see multiple clinicians in one visit, improving coordinated care and reducing wait times. The integrated practice unit model streamlines appointments and minimizes redundancy.
A first-in-human Phase 1/Phase II study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of intravenous administration of technetium-99m tilmanocept for monitoring rheumatoid arthritis disease activity. The imaging agent binds to activated macrophages, providing joint-specific information on RA disease involvement.
Researchers created a synthetic lubricant that mimics the natural lubricin found in joints, providing a potential cure for osteoarthritis. The synthetic lubricant is being tested in canine clinical trials and holds promise for future human use.
Antibodies in joints can generate pain even without inflammation, according to a study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine. The researchers found that immune complexes activate pain cells via Fc-gamma receptors, leading to chronic non-inflammatory pain in autoimmune diseases.
Researchers at Boston University discovered that administering relaxin, a natural pregnancy hormone, can restore full range of motion to stiff shoulder joints. The study found that relaxin helps maintain tissue structure and function, potentially leading to an unprecedented cure for the frozen shoulder condition.
Researchers repurpose pregnancy hormone relaxin to alleviate symptoms of arthrofibrosis, a painful and debilitating joint condition, restoring range of motion and improving tissue health in an animal model. The findings suggest that relaxin could offer relief for millions of people affected by the disease.
Researchers found orang-utan knuckle joints consistent with branch grasping, while chimpanzee and gorilla joints matched knuckle-walking patterns. The study's findings enhance understanding of human evolutionary history.
Researchers have identified a crucial connection between specific fibroblast cells in the joint and two types of arthritis: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The discovery could lead to the development of targeted therapies that alter the behavior of these fibroblasts to reduce inflammation and tissue destruction.
A recent study found early signs of cartilage breakdown in mice exposed to microgravity for 30 days. The researchers theorize that the lack of gravity's biomechanical forces leads to joint unloading, causing cartilage degradation. This could have significant implications for future astronauts on long-term space missions.
Researchers found that glucocorticoid use, especially above 10mg/d, was associated with increased risk for infections, readmission, and prosthetic joint infections among RA patients undergoing joint replacement surgery. Biologics had similar risks across treatments.
A study characterizes the phenotypic spectrum of individuals with aggrecan gene (ACAN) mutations, revealing common symptoms such as short stature and accelerated bone age. Researchers investigate the efficacy of growth hormone therapy in improving height SDS scores in children with ACAN deficiencies.
Research suggests that daily activities such as eating and walking are affected early in the course of rheumatoid arthritis, with most patients experiencing functional disabilities. The study also found that persistent excess in functional disability continued even after diagnosis and treatment.
A study published in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research found that low-income patients are at higher risk of above-knee amputation after periprosthetic joint infection. The researchers analyzed data from a nationally representative hospital database and found that patients living in areas with lower incomes were 58% more likely...
Researchers analyzed 4,442 hip implants and 947,686 knee replacements to find that some implants have excellent results with low failure rates, while others perform poorly. The study provides a comprehensive benchmark for joint replacement surgery, enabling patients to discuss their options with surgeons.
Patients who received a shoulder injection within one month of surgery had a significantly higher infection rate (1.3%) compared to those who did not. Steroid injections at other intervals during the year before surgery did not affect postoperative infection risk.
A large study of over 670,000 primary hip replacement patients found that patients under 60, males, and those with chronic pulmonary disease are at increased risk of developing severe infection. The study also showed that liver diseases or inflammatory arthropathy increase the risk of revision for infection in the long-term.
A smart fabric system developed by Dartmouth College researchers uses off-the-shelf fabrics to monitor joint rotation and provide real-time feedback for athletic coaching and physical therapy. The wearable is lightweight, washable, and comfortable, achieving a low median error of 9.69º in reconstructing elbow joint angles.
Researchers at UCI are working on biological TMJ discs in the laboratory that will be suitable for implantation in humans. The new approach eschews synthetic materials and aims to reduce negative effects on quality of life. Successful trials have been conducted in large-animal models, showing complete functionality of the TMJ disc.
Patients with insulin-dependent diabetes are more than five times as likely to experience post-operative hyperglycemia compared to those without the condition. The risk is linked to higher blood glucose levels over the previous three months, regardless of insulin dependency.
The mini cheetah robot's lightweight, high-power design enables it to perform a 360-degree backflip and walk on uneven terrain. The robot's modular design allows for easy repair and replacement of damaged parts.