Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation - Volume Pre-press, issue Pre-press

Authors: Sung, Ha-Rim | Oh, Se-Jung | Ryu, Jun-Nam | Cha, Yong-Jun

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the most effective ankle joint position for squat exercise by comparing muscle activities of lower extremity and erector spinae muscles in different ankle joint positions. METHODS: Thirty-seven normal healthy adults in their 20s participated in this study. Muscle activities of dominant vastus medialis oblique, vastus lateralis, biceps femoris, and erect spinae were measured in three ankle joint positions; dorsiflexion, neutral, and plantar flexion. RESULTS: Muscle activities of the vastus medialis oblique, vastus lateralis, and erector spinae muscles were statistically different in the three ankle …joint positions during squat exercise (p < 0.05). Vastus medialis oblique muscles showed higher muscle activity in ankle plantar flexion than in the dorsiflexion or neutral positions (plantar flexion > neutral position, + 3.3% of maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC); plantar flexion > dorsiflexion, + 12.2% of MVIC, respectively). Vastus lateralis muscles showed 7.1% of MVIC greater muscle activity in the neutral position than in dorsiflexion, and erector spinae muscles showed higher muscle activity in dorsiflexion than in plantar flexion or in the neutral position (dorsiflexion > neutral position, + 4.3% of MVIC; dorsiflexion > plantar flexion, + 7.1% of MVIC, respectively). CONCLUSION: In squat exercises designed to strengthen the vastus medialis oblique, ankle joint plantar flexion is probably the most effective ankle training position, and the dorsiflexion position might be the most effective exercise for strengthening the erector spinae muscle. Show more

Keywords: Squat exercise, muscle activity, ankle joint position, multi-joint position

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-191807

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-6, 2021

Authors: Sucuoğlu, Hamza | Soydaş, Nalan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: In this study we investigate the effects of paravertebral ozone injections (POI), which have been used as a new treatment approach for lower back pain in recent years, on pain and physical activity in patients with acute lumbar disc herniation (LDH) as an additional treatment. METHODS: Thirty-eight patients were assigned into the ozone therapy (OT) group (n = 20) and placebo control (PC) group (n = 18). Both groups received two sessions per week, a total of 8 sessions of lumbar POI. The ozone concentrations …of 20–25 μ g/ml (30 ml) and 0.1 μ g/ml (30 ml) were administered to the OT and PC groups, respectively. The patients were assessed with the visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) before the treatment (V1), 15 (V2) and 30 (V3) days after the treatment started, and one month (V4) after the treatment ended. RESULTS: A significant improvement was seen in the VAS and ODI scores in the final follow-up (V4) as compared with the baselines scores (V1) in both groups (P < 0.05). The patients in the OT group had lower mean VAS and ODI scores in V2, V3, and V4 follow-ups compared with the patients in the PC group. This significant difference reached its peak in the final follow-up (V4) (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: As an additional treatment combined with conservative treatment, lumbar POI can lessen pain and disability in patients with acute LDH. Show more

Keywords: Injection, low back pain, lumbar disc herniation, ozone therapy, paravertebral muscle

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-200194

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-9, 2021

Authors: Barbari, Valerio | Storari, Lorenzo | Maselli, Filippo | Testa, Marco

Article Type: Article Commentary

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Explaining pain to patients through pain neuroscience education (PNE) is currently a widespread treatment studied in the musculoskeletal context. Presently, there is sufficient evidence supporting the effectiveness of PNE in patients with chronic musculoskeletal disorders. However, clinicians must pay attention to the actual possibility to transfer research findings in their specific clinical context. OBJECTIVE: We analysed the applicability of results of studies focused on PNE, which has not been done previously. METHODS: A detailed discussion on PNE applicability is provided, starting from published randomized controlled trials that investigated the effectiveness of PNE. …RESULTS: This paper markedly points out the awareness of clinicians on the need for an accurate contextualization when choosing PNE as an intervention in clinical practice. Show more

Keywords: Pain neuroscience education, musculoskeletal disorders, applicability, clinical trials

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-200091

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-10, 2021

Authors: Krause, Frieder | Niederer, Daniel | Banzer, Winfried | Vogt, Lutz

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A considerable part of patients with non-specific low back pain (LBP) suffer from a recurrence of symptoms after therapy cessation. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this cohort study was to evaluate the predictive value of active and passive treatments and treatment modalities on a recurrence of low back pain after cessation of medically prescribed therapy. METHODS: Patients with non-specific LBP from a health- and therapy-center were included. Treatments were monitored and categorized as active or passive. During one year after therapy cessation, patients were monitored to retrieve information about recurrence of symptoms. Patients …were dichotomized (recurrence versus no recurrence). An ROC-Analysis was used to determine optimal cut-offs for relevant treatment characteristics’ (passive versus active; frequency) impact on recurrence risk. The relative risk for a recurrence was calculated based on Chi 2 -test. RESULTS: Data from 96 participants (56 females, 40 males, mean age 49 years, standard deviation 11 years) were analysed. A total of 34 participants had recurring LBP. The frequency of active treatment differed significantly between groups with or without recurrence (p < 0.05). A therapy frequency of 1.45 active treatments/week was a sensitive cut-off (sensitivity: 0.73) to discriminate the recurrence groups. Participants with an active therapy frequency of less than 1.45 treatments per week showed an 82% increased relative recurrence risk (RR: 1.824 (95%-CI: 1.077–3.087)). CONCLUSIONS: The results empathize the importance of active treatments (i.e. exercise) in the therapy and (secondary) prevention of non-specific LBP. Less than 1.45 active treatment sessions/week increases the 1-year-risk of a recurrence by 82%. Performing at least two treatments sessions per week is therefore recommended. Show more

Keywords: Unspecific low back pain, therapy frequency, recurrence-risk, compliance, MiSpEx, NCLBP

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-200149

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-6, 2021

Authors: Schneider, Byron J. | Haring, R. Sterling | Song, Amos | Kim, Peter | Ayers, Gregory D. | Kennedy, David J. | Jain, Nitin B.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Back pain is a leading reason for seeking care in the United States (US), and is a major cause of morbidity. OBJECTIVE: To analyze demographic, patient, and visit characteristics of adult ambulatory spine clinic visits in the United States from 2009–2016. METHODS: Data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey from 2009–2016 were used and were sample weighted. RESULTS: Most patients presenting for ambulatory spine care were 45–64 years (45%), were most commonly female (56.8%), and private insurance (45%) and Medicare (26%) were most common payors. The percentage of …visits for spine care done at a primary care setting was 50.1% in 2009–2010 and 48.3% in 2014–2015. Approximately 15.5% were seen in orthopedic surgery clinics in 2009–2010 and 7.3% in 2015–2016. MRI was utilized in 11.7% in 2009–2010 and 11.0% in 2015–2016. Physical therapy was prescribed in 13.2% and narcotic analgesic medications were prescribed in 36.2% of patients in 2015–2016. CONCLUSIONS: MRI was used more frequently than guidelines recommended, and physical therapy was less frequently utilized despite evidence. A relatively high use of opiates in treatment of back pain was reported and is concerning. Although back pain represents a substantial public health burden in the United States, the delivery of care is not evidence-based. Show more

Keywords: Low back pain, epidemiology, primary care

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-200145

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-8, 2021

Authors: Żłobiński, Tobiasz | Stolecka-Warzecha, Anna | Hartman-Petrycka, Magdalena | Błońska-Fajfrowska, Barbara

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Hallux valgus, one of the most common foot disorders, contributes to the formation of pain and changes foot biomechanics. OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of Kinesiology Taping (KT) on foot loading during gait in patients with hallux valgus. METHODS: Forty feet with hallux valgus were examined. Patients wore the KT for a month and the parameters of the foot during gait on a baropodometric platform were measured three times: before taping, immediately after application of taping and after one month’s use. RESULTS: The taping had a statistically significant effect …on dynamic foot measurements. The maximum and mean foot load (p < 0.001), foot surface (p < 0.001), ratio of forefoot to hindfoot load (p < 0.01) and the proportions of the lateral and medial foot loading (p < 0.05) all changed. During gait cycle, taping significantly increased the load and surface at the first metatarsal head (p < 0.001) while there was a decrease around the second to fifth (p < 0.001) metatarsal heads. CONCLUSIONS: Using KT to correct a hallux valgus is a procedure that has an impact on the dynamic parameters of the foot during gait. The use of this method could become an alternative to surgical treatment for those patients, who have any contraindication for surgery. Show more

Keywords: Hallux valgus, Kinesiology Taping, gait, biomechanics of foot

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-200231

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-7, 2021

Authors: Shin, Hun Kyu | Park, Jai Hyung | Lee, In Gyu | Park, Jin Hun | Park, Jun Hyoung | Cho, Yongun

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The number of patients with an osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture, which is often accompanied by lower back pain and restrained activities, is growing. Balloon kyphoplasty involves the inflation of a balloon to restore height and reduce kyphotic deformity before stabilization with polymethylmethacrylate. However, there is a great deal of debate about whether balloon kyphoplasty also increases fracture morbidity by either inducing or facilitating subsequent adjacent vertebral fractures. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship between the rate of vertebral body height loss before balloon kyphoplasty and the etiology of early adjacent vertebral fracture after augmentation. …METHODS: A total of 59 patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures who underwent kyphoplasty were enrolled. This study defined early adjacent segmental fractures as new fractures occurring within three months after surgery. This study included the rate of vertebral body height loss. RESULTS: Early adjacent vertebral fractures were diagnosed in nine (15%) of the 59 patients. The patients were divided into two groups, with and without adjacent vertebral fractures. There was no significant difference in terms of age, body mass index, bone mineral density, local kyphotic angle, Cobb’s angle, cement volume, cement leakage, and percent height restored between the groups with fractures and without fractures. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in the rate of vertebral body height loss. The rate of vertebral body height loss was significantly higher in the fracture group than in the without fracture group. CONCLUSIONS: A high rate of vertebral body height loss increased the risk of early adjacent vertebral fractures after balloon kyphoplasty. Show more

Keywords: Osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture, adjacent vertebral fracture, balloon kyphoplasty, vertebral body height loss

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-200121

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-8, 2021

Authors: Develi, Elif | Subasi, Feryal | Aslan, Goksen K. | Bingol, Zuleyha

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In the literature, novel physiotherapy and rehabilitation approaches are getting significant attention as a way to cope with secondary complications in the management of asthma. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effectiveness of core stabilization exercises combined with the Asthma Education Program (AEP) and breathing exercises in patients with asthma. METHODS: The study sample consists of 40 asthmatic patients (age 52.25 ± 11.51 years) who were randomly divided into a Training Group (TG) (n = 20) and a Control Group (CG) (n = …20). All subjects were included in the AEP, and both groups were trained in breathing retraining exercises (2 times/wk, 6-week duration in the clinic). The core stabilization exercise program was also applied in the TG. Respiratory muscle strength (maximum inspiratory and expiratory pressures), physical activity level (International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ)), health-related quality of life (Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQOL)), functional exercise capacity (six-minute walking test (6MWT)), and dynamic balance (Prokin PK200) were assessed before and after the interventions. RESULTS: The TG showed more significant improvements in MIP (Δ TG:4.55 cmH2O, Δ CG:0.95 cmH2O), IPAQ (Δ TG:334.15 MET-min/wk., Δ CG:99 MET-min/wk.), 6MWT (Δ TG:24.50 m, Δ CG:11.50 m), and dynamic balance sub-parameters compared to the mean difference between the initial assessment and after a 6-week intervention program, which included twelve exercise sessions (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The findings present greater improvements in inspiratory muscle strength, physical activity level, functional exercise capacity, and dynamic balance when core stabilization exercises are included in the pulmonary rehabilitation program for the management of asthma. Show more

Keywords: Asthma education, breathing exercises, core stabilization, dynamic balance, functional capacity, respiratory muscle strength

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-191803

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-10, 2021

Authors: Yalçın, Ümit

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Although studies examined kinesiological taping (KT) and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in myofascial pain syndrome (MPS), no study has yet compared these two treatments. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of KT and ESWT on pain, pain threshold, functional level and neck movements in the treatment of MPS, which is an important cause of disability and constitutes 50–80% of chronic painful diseases. METHODS: Two hundred and sixty-two patients diagnosed with MPS in the upper part of the unilateral trapeze muscle were included in the study. The patients were divided …into three groups according to the treatment they received: Group 1 (n = 75): ESWT + exercise, Group 2 (n = 82): KT + exercise, Group 3 (n = 105) and the latter receiving only exercise therapy (control group). Visual analog scale (VAS), pain threshold with algometer, Neck Disability Index (NDI), and neck contralateral lateral flexion angle were assessed before and three months after treatment. RESULTS: VAS, pain threshold, NDI and contralateral flexion angle values after treatment improved significantly in the ESWT and KT groups (p < 0.05) compared to the control group. The level of improvement in the ESWT group was higher (p < 0.05) than in the KT group in terms of VAS, pain threshold and NDI scores. CONCLUSION: Exercise, KT and ESWT applications in MPS were effective in all of the parameters examined. However, the ESWT + exercise therapy was more effective in terms of pain, pain threshold and disability. Show more

Keywords: Myofascial pain syndrome, kinesiological taping, extracorporeal shock wave therapy

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-200234

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-8, 2021

Authors: Endo, Naoto | Ishii, Daisuke | Ishibashi, Kiyoshige | Yamamoto, Satoshi | Takeda, Kotaro | Kohno, Yutaka

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Rotator cuff muscles are structurally and functionally different from other upper-limb muscles because they are responsible for glenohumeral joint stability. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) induces excitability changes (increase or decrease) of the corticospinal tract (CST) in the peripheral muscles, such as those of the finger. However, it remains unclear whether similar results are obtained when targeting the infraspinatus muscle, which has properties that differ from other muscles, in healthy subjects. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the immediate effects of NMES on the corticospinal excitability of the infraspinatus muscle, a rotator cuff muscle, in healthy subjects. …METHODS: Thirteen healthy right-handed men (mean age: 26.77 ± 2.08 years) participated in this study. The motor evoked potentials (MEPs) and the maximum compound muscle action potential (Mmax) were recorded before NMES to the right infraspinatus and within 15 minutes after the end of the NMES. RESULTS: NMES on the infraspinatus muscle significantly increased its MEP amplitude (Pre: 0.45 mV [0.33–0.48]; Post: 0.54 mV [0.46–0.60] (median [lower quartile to higher quartile]); p = 0.005) but had no effect on Mmax (Pre: 2.95 mV [2.59–4.71]; Post: 3.35 mV [2.76–4.72]; p = 0.753). CONCLUSIONS: NMES application to the infraspinatus muscle increases CST excitability without producing immediate changes in the neuromuscular junction or muscle hypertrophy. Show more

Keywords: Infraspinatus muscle, rotator cuff muscles, electrical stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, motor evoked potential

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-200298

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-7, 2021