Search Results

Osteoarthritis as an inflammatory disease (osteoarthritis is not osteoarthrosis!). Berenbaum, F. (2013) Level of Evidence : 5 Follow recommendation : 👍 👍 (2/4 thumbs up) Type of study : Aetiology Topic : Osteoarthritis - Beyond instability and biomechanics This is a narrative review on the role of factors other than instability and biomechanics in the development of pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA). The authors report evidence from several studies suggesting that synovitis and inflammation are key features of osteoarthritis. In particular, high levels of systemic inflammation (C reactive protein) have been shown to correlate with symptoms and evidence of synovitis in osteoarthritic joints. In addition, a low-grade autoimmune response appears to potentially contribute to the development or maintenance of OA. Interestingly, obese people appear to present with a greater risk of developing hand OA, suggesting that factors other than biomechanics potentially contribute to the development of osteoarthritis. Of interest is also the association between distal interphalangeal OA and the presence of carotid artery atherosclerosis. Once again suggesting that low-grade inflammation may be contributing to the development of both OA and cardiovascular comorbidities. Disclaimer: This publication was reviewed and assessed by one reviewer only and it reflects their interpretation. Readers should come to their own conclusions by reading the original article. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, OA has a wide range of contributing factors and is not only due to biomechanical or instability factors. This is probably why a recently published study showed that factors such as BMI, sleep quality, physical activity, and overall perceived health are able to predict (at least partially) who is more likely to develop hand OA . In addition, evidence from another research group has shown that alteration of sleep patterns in shift workers is associated with higher levels of inflammation (C reactive protein) and that the greater the level of inflammation the greater pain intensity . Open Access URL : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joca.2012.11.012 Abstract Summary Osteoarthritis (OA) has long been considered a “wear and tear” disease leading to loss of cartilage. OA used to be considered the sole consequence of any process leading to increased pressure on one particular joint or fragility of cartilage matrix. Progress in molecular biology in the 1990s has profoundly modified this paradigm. The discovery that many soluble mediators such as cytokines or prostaglandins can increase the production of matrix metalloproteinases by chondrocytes led to the first steps of an “inflammatory” theory. However, it took a decade before synovitis was accepted as a critical feature of OA, and some studies are now opening the way to consider the condition a driver of the OA process. Recent experimental data have shown that subchondral bone may have a substantial role in the OA process, as a mechanical damper, as well as a source of inflammatory mediators implicated in the OA pain process and in the degradation of the deep layer of cartilage. Thus, initially considered cartilage driven, OA is a much more complex disease with inflammatory mediators released by cartilage, bone and synovium. Low-grade inflammation induced by the metabolic syndrome, innate immunity and inflammaging are some of the more recent arguments in favor of the inflammatory theory of OA and highlighted in this review. publications = Total number of papers citing this research supporting = Citation statements supporting the findings mentioning = Neutral citation statements contrasting = Citation statements not supporting the findings

Association between physical activity and risk of depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pearce, M., et al. (2022) Level of Evidence : 1a Follow recommendation : 👍 👍 👍 👍 (4/4 thumbs up) Type of study : Therapeutic Topic : Depression - Does exercise reduce risk This is a systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the effectiveness of exercise on the incidence of depressive symptoms. Fifteen prospective studies were included for a total of 19,113 participants. Studies were included if they reported the type of physical activity and its weekly amount. Depressive symptoms were assessed through a variety of methods including psychiatric evaluations as well as validated questionnaires. Incidence of depression was determined by either a psychiatrist's diagnosis or previously defined thresholds on validated questionnaires. The results showed that reaching 4.4 metabolic equivalents (MET) per week (e.g. 1 hr 15 minutes brisk walking/week) reduced depression by 18%. By reaching 8.8 MET per week (2 hr 30 minutes brisk walking/week) the risk of depression reduced by 25%. Reaching higher levels of MET did not reduce the risk of depression to a large extent (see figure). Disclaimer: This publication was reviewed and assessed by one reviewer only and it reflects their interpretation. Readers should come to their own conclusions by reading the original article. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, engaging in any form of moderate exercise for at least 1 hr and 15 minutes per week can reduce the risk of developing depression in our clients. Considering that several of our clients with upper limb conditions are predisposed to develop depressive symptoms , encouraging them to follow the WHO guidelines for physical activity would be beneficial. In addition, physical activity has been shown to reduce depressive symptoms in people with this condition . Considering the link between depressive symptoms and upper limb recovery , and mental health and post-surgical satisfaction in (e.g. CTS) , we should encourage our clients to become active. Open Access URL : https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2022.0609 Abstract Depression is the leading cause of mental health–related disease burden and may be reduced by physical activity, but the dose-response relationship between activity and depression is uncertain.To systematically review and meta-analyze the dose-response association between physical activity and incident depression from published prospective studies of adults.PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and the reference lists of systematic reviews retrieved by a systematic search up to December 11, 2020, with no language limits. The date of the search was November 12, 2020.We included prospective cohort studies reporting physical activity at 3 or more exposure levels and risk estimates for depression with 3000 or more adults and 3 years or longer of follow-up.Data extraction was completed independently by 2 extractors and cross-checked for errors. A 2-stage random-effects dose-response meta-analysis was used to synthesize data. Study-specific associations were estimated using generalized least-squares regression and the pooled association was estimated by combining the study-specific coefficients using restricted maximum likelihood.The outcome of interest was depression, including (1) presence of major depressive disorder indicated by self-report of physician diagnosis, registry data, or diagnostic interviews and (2) elevated depressive symptoms established using validated cutoffs for a depressive screening instrument.Fifteen studies comprising 191 130 participants and 2 110 588 person-years were included. An inverse curvilinear dose-response association between physical activity and depression was observed, with steeper association gradients at lower activity volumes; heterogeneity was large and significant (I2 = 74%; P < .001). Relative to adults not reporting any activity, those accumulating half the recommended volume of physical activity (4.4 marginal metabolic equivalent task hours per week [mMET-h/wk]) had 18% (95% CI, 13%-23%) lower risk of depression. Adults accumulating the recommended volume of 8.8 mMET hours per week had 25% (95% CI, 18%-32%) lower risk with diminishing potential benefits and higher uncertainty observed beyond that exposure level. There were diminishing additional potential benefits and greater uncertainty at higher volumes of physical activity. Based on an estimate of exposure prevalences among included cohorts, if less active adults had achieved the current physical activity recommendations, 11.5% (95% CI, 7.7%-15.4%) of depression cases could have been prevented.This systematic review and meta-analysis of associations between physical activity and depression suggests significant mental health benefits from being physically active, even at levels below the public health recommendations. Health practitioners should therefore encourage any increase in physical activity to improve mental health. publications = Total number of papers citing this research supporting = Citation statements supporting the findings mentioning = Neutral citation statements contrasting = Citation statements not supporting the findings

Evaluation of a grip-strengthening algorithm for the initial treatment of chronic, nonspecific wrist pain in adolescents. Dorich, J. M. and R. Cornwall (2022) Level of Evidence : 4 Follow recommendation : 👍 (1/4 thumbs up) Type of study : Therapeutic Topic : Nonspecific wrist pain - Treatment This is a retrospective study on the effectiveness of six weeks of gripping exercises in adolescents with persistent nonspecific wrist pain. A total of 32 participants with an average age of 14 were included. To be included, participants had to present with a lack of pathology identified on x-ray and no evidence of specific pathology on objective examination. Outcome measures included grip strength and subjective reports of upper limb function. Grip strength was assessed through a dynamometer and function through the Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument’s (PODCI’s) Upper Extremity Function domain. Gripping resistance training was performed twice daily for five minutes each time for 6 weeks. Following this period, the same outcomes were recorded again. The results showed that grip strength improved by on average 7 kg in the affected side (this would be defined as a clinically significant improvement based on a previous synopsis ), and function improved by 13 points on the PDCI Upper Extremety Function domain (this would be defined as a clinically significant improvement based on a previous paper ). It is important to keep in mind that this study did not present a control group and that the results could be due to other confounding variables including natural history. Disclaimer: This publication was reviewed and assessed by one reviewer only and it reflects their interpretation. Readers should come to their own conclusions by reading the original article. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, grip strengthening exercises for adolescents with persistent nonspecific wrist pain may be useful in reducing symptoms and improving function. If you are interested in another upper limb condition that may affect adolescents, have a look at this synopsis . Open Access URL : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsg.2021.09.001 Abstract Purpose: Chronic, nonspecific wrist pain in adolescents can be challenging to assess and treat. We hypothesized that an algorithmic approach beginning with grip strengthening can alleviate pain, improve function, and identify patients in need of further intervention. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the results of a grip-strengthening protocol for adolescents with chronic, nonspecific wrist pain. Before and after treatment, grip strength was measured using handheld dynamometry, and patient-reported pain and function were measured using the adolescent self-reported Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument’s (PODCI’s) Pain/Comfort and Upper Extremity Function domains (PODCI/pain and PODCI/UE, respectively). Results: Thirty-two patients (28 female, 4 male) were included, with a mean age of 14 years (range, 10–18 years) and the dominant hand affected in 19, nondominant hand in 9, and bilateral impacts in 4. The mean symptom duration prior to presentation was 9 months (range, 1–63 months); 17 patients had undergone prior immobilization and 5 prior occupational/physical therapy. Grip-strengthening treatment, lasting a mean of 40 days (range, 21–82 days) with a median of 4 therapy visits (range, 2–6), was associated with significantly improved grip strength (mean, 32–48 lbs), PODCI/pain scores (mean, 49.0–78.2 points), and PODCI/UE scores (mean, 78.2–91.2 points). Improvements in grip strength correlated with improvements in PODCI/pain and PODCI/UE scores (r = 0.64 and 0.70, respectively). Eight patients (25%) had either no or incomplete pain relief: 5 underwent successful further intervention (2 ganglion cyst excisions, 1 triangular fibrocartilage complex repair, 1 arthroscopic debridement, 1 steroid injection), 2 received ongoing pain management for generalized pain syndromes, and 1 was lost to further follow-up. No pretreatment variables were identified that predicted failure. Conclusions: Grip strengthening relieves pain and improves function in the majority of adolescents with chronic, nonspecific wrist pain. Systematic use of this protocol helps to identify patients who require further intervention. publications = Total number of papers citing this research supporting = Citation statements supporting the findings mentioning = Neutral citation statements contrasting = Citation statements not supporting the findings

Sensorimotor performance and function in people with osteoarthritis of the hand: A case-control comparison. Magni, N., McNair, P., & Rice, D. (2017) Level of Evidence : 3b Follow recommendation : 👍 👍 Type of study : Aetiologic Topic : Symptomatic hand osteoarthritis - Brain changes This is a case-control study assessing differences on motor imagery, tactile acuity, and neglect-like symptoms in participants with hand OA (cases) and healthy participants (controls). A total of 39 participants were included in the study. Hand OA (n = 20) was diagnosed through the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria and confirmed through x-ray. Healthy participants (n = 19) were age and gender matched to the hand OA participants. Motor imagery was assessed through a hand left-right discrimination task (reaction time and response accuracy), tactile acuity was measured through two-point discrimination, and neglect-like symptoms were measured through the neurobehavioral questionnaire . The results showed that participants with hand OA were significantly slower (0.5 seconds slower) and less accurate (10% less accurate) in discriminating between left-right hands during the motor imagery task. It is unclear whether these differences are clinically relevant as no study as assessed the minimal clinically important difference for this test. There was no difference between groups on two-point discrimination. There was a statistically significant difference between groups on neglect-like symptoms, with 50% of the hand OA sample reporting them (0% of the healthy people reported them). Overall, due to multitude of statistical tests performed (23 tests) and the number of significant findings (11 test) there is a 10% probability that the results are just due to chance (the correlation analysis was not reported in this synopsis). Due to the cross-sectional nature of this study it is not possible to comment on the causality between these findings (motor imagery and neglect-like symptoms) and their contribution to pain. It is possible that on-going pain associated with hand OA may contribute to these findings or vice-versa. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, clients with hand OA may present with brain changes that are the result of, or contribute to, their pain experience. This may explain why illusory resizing temporarily reduces pain in hand OA (see this synopsis ). Currently, this type of treatment is supported by low quality of evidence and other multidisciplinary approaches , supported by higher quality evidence, may be implemented first. Open access URL : https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0049017217302809 Abstract Objectives: To determine whether hand left/right judgements, tactile acuity, and body perception are impaired in people with hand OA. To examine the relationships between left right judgements, tactile acuity and hand pain. To explore the relationships between sensorimotor measures (left/right judgements and tactile acuity) and measures of hand function in people with hand OA. Methods: Twenty patients with symptomatic hand OA and 19 healthy pain-free controls undertook a hand left/right judgment task, a control left/right judgement task, two-point discrimination (TPD) threshold testing (assessing tactile acuity), a neglect-like symptoms questionnaire (assessing body perception) and several established measures of hand function. Results: Neglect-like symptoms were experienced more frequently in the hand OA group (P < 0.05). People with hand OA were slower (P < 0.05) and less accurate (P < 0.05) in the hand left/right judgement task when compared to healthy controls, with no significant difference in the control task. Significant associations were found between hand left/right judgement reaction time and pain intensity (P < 0.05) and accuracy and pain intensity (P < 0.05). TPD was not different between groups, and no correlation was found between TPD and left/right judgement performance. No association was found between left/right judgement performance and measures of hand function (all P > 0.05). However, TPD (tactile acuity) was related to several measures of hand function (all P < 0.05). Conclusion: People with hand OA had more frequent neglect-like symptoms and were slower and less accurate compared to healthy controls at hand left/right judgments, which was indicative of disrupted working body schema. Future studies may wish to examine whether interventions targeting sensorimotor dysfunction are effective at reducing pain and improving hand function and dexterity in people with hand OA.

Shift work, inflammation and musculoskeletal pain-The HUNT Study. Matre, D., et al. (2021) Level of Evidence : 2c Follow recommendation : 👍 👍 Type of study : Aetiologic Topic : Night shifts - Low grade systemic inflammation and persistent pain This is a cross-sectional study assessing the association between shift work, inflammation, and persistent musculoskeletal pain. A total of 23,223 participants were included in the study. Of these, 5,091 were shift workers whilst 18,132 were not. Blood tests to assess C-reactive protein (CRP), which is a marker of inflammation, were completed on all participants. In addition, participants were asked whether they had any persistent musculoskeletal pain (pain for more than 3 months in the last year), and how many persistent pain sites they had. The results showed that shift work and inflammation were independently associated with the presence of persistent musculoskeletal pain and the number of persistent musculoskeletal pain sites. Shift work was still association with persistent pain and the number of painful sites even when different levels of systemic inflammation were controlled for. All these analyses were adjusted for age, sex, and education. Disclaimer: This publication was reviewed and assessed by one reviewer only and it reflects their interpretation. Readers should come to their own conclusions by reading the original article. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, it appears that shift workers are more likely to present with chronic musculoskeletal pain compared to people working regular hours. This may also be also a contributing factor to the slow recovery rate of some of your clients such as nurses, chefs, and security guards. It appears that low-grade inflammation may be contributing to the symptoms. These findings suggest that loading and repetitive tasks may not be the only factors contributing to our clients musculoskeletal pain and that a more holistic approach of our clients may be justified. Next week I will give you some extra information on what may benefit your shift workers! URL : https://doi.org/10.1093/occmed/kqab133 Available through EBSCO Health Databases for PNZ members. Abstract BACKGROUND Studies have indicated that shift work, in particular night work, is associated with chronic musculoskeletal pain but the mechanisms are unclear. It has been suggested that sleep disturbance, a common complaint among shift and night workers, may induce low-grade inflammation as well as heightened pain sensitivity. AIMS Firstly, this study was aimed to examine the cross-sectional associations between shift work, C-reactive protein (CRP) level and chronic musculoskeletal pain, and secondly, to analyse CRP as a mediator between shift work and chronic musculoskeletal pain. METHODS The study included 23 223 vocationally active women and men who participated in the HUNT4 Survey of the Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT). Information was collected by questionnaires, interviews, biological samples and clinical examination. RESULTS Regression analyses adjusted for sex, age and education revealed significant associations between shift work and odds of any chronic musculoskeletal pain (odd ratio [OR] 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04-1.19), between shift work and CRP level (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.03-1.16) and between CRP level 3.00-10 mg/L and any chronic musculoskeletal pain (OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.27-1.51). Shift work and CRP were also associated with number of chronic pain sites. Mediation analysis indicated that shift work was indirectly associated with any chronic musculoskeletal pain through CRP (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.06). CONCLUSIONS The results support the hypothesis that shift work is associated with chronic musculoskeletal pain, and that systemic inflammation may be a biological mechanism linking shift work to chronic pain. publications = Total number of papers citing this research supporting = Citation statements supporting the findings mentioning = Neutral citation statements contrasting = Citation statements not supporting the findings

Minimal clinically important difference for grip strength: A systematic review. Bohannon, R. W. (2019) Level of Evidence : 2a Follow recommendation : 👍 👍 👍 Type of study : Diagnostic Topic : Minimal clinically important difference - Grip strength Through HandyEvidence surveys, I have discovered that Hand Therapists are interested in tips on how to critique research articles. This synopsis is the third of a series providing tips on how to interpret the research that you read. In particular, this synopsis revolves around the minimally clinically important difference concept. By minimal clinically important difference, people refer to the smallest change in a measure (e.g. Grip strength) which can be considered as a real improvement in the clinical presentation of our clients. There are at least a couple of methods that can be used to estimate this value, and they are called "anchor-based" and "distribution-based" methods. The anchor-based method calculates the minimal clinically important difference by determining the score of those participants who report benefiting from an intervention/treatment. The distribution-based methods instead does not take into account participants' opinion of improvement and simply calculate the minimal clinically important difference based on the error of the measure utilised. In the paper that I read this week, an anchor based method was utilised to calculate the minimal clinically important difference for grip strength in a group of participants with several different upper limb conditions. The results showed that the minimal clinically important difference calculated through an anchor-based method (utilising clients' feedback) ranged between 3 to 6 kg. Disclaimer: This publication was reviewed and assessed by one reviewer only and it reflects their interpretation. Readers should come to their own conclusions by reading the original article. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, the minimal clinically important difference for grip strength ranges between 3 to 6 kg. Personally, I prefer to lean towards larger changes, hence I would suggest that a change of 5-6 kg could be clinically meaningful. This means that if one of our client's grip strength at baseline (at first appointment) was 18 kg and 23 kg on discharge, we would have achieved a clinically meaningful improvement. Once again, it is possible that this change could be either due to our treatment, other people's treatment (e.g. GP medications) , regression to the mean , variables that we have not considered (e.g. reduction in kinesiophobia ), or natural history of the condition. If you liked this synopsis you may also like other topics such as the minimal clinically important difference for the QuickDASH relevance of statistical significance or p<0.05 , implementation of research to clinical practice , and how to make evidence guided decisions when limited evidence is available . Open access URL : https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.31.75 Abstract Purpose The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in grip strength is critical to interpreting changes in hand strength over time. This review was undertaken to summarize extant descriptions of the MCID for grip strength. Methods A search of 3 bibliographic databases as well as a hand search were completed to identify articles reporting the MCID for grip forces obtained by dynamometry. Results Of 38 unique articles identified as potentially relevant, 4 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria of this review. The MCIDs ranged from 0.04 kg to 6.5 kg. However, only a single study used receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and had an associated area under the curve exceeding 0.70. That study reported an MCID of 6.5 kg, which was similar to the MCIDs of another included study and minimal detectable changes reported elsewhere. Conclusion Additional, more rigorous, studies are needed to identify MCIDs for grip strength. In the meantime changes of 5.0 to 6.5 kg may be reasonable estimates of meaningful changes in grip strength. publications = Total number of papers citing this research supporting = Citation statements supporting the findings mentioning = Neutral citation statements contrasting = Citation statements not supporting the findings

Hook of hamate fractures. Tian, A. and C. A. Goldfarb (2021) Level of Evidence : 5 Follow recommendation : 👍 (1/4 thumbs up) Type of study : Diagnostic, Therapeutic Topic : Hook of hamate fractures - Diagnosis and treatment This is a narrative review on the diagnosis and treatment of hook of hamate fractures. The hook of the hamate has a variable vascularisation, with around 30% of people relying on a dorsal and volar-radial branch for its nutrition. This means that a base of the hook of hamate fracture may cause a lack of vascular supply to the fragment. Often symptoms present as a vague ulnar-sided pain that can onset either acutely after trauma or insidiously (stress fracture). Usually clients present with tenderness on palpation of the hook of the hamate in the palm of the hand (see picture). Time to diagnosis for these fractures is between 14 and 40 weeks. The main reasons for diagnostic delays include assessment by non-specialists health care providers and the inability of normal x-ray views to identify this lesion. Carpal tunnel views (x-ray - see figure) are usually more useful to diagnose this condition. Treatment alternatives include splinting or short arm casting for 6-8 weeks. The non-union rate with this approach varies widely. Surgical treatment includes open reduction and internal fixation or fragment excision. Disclaimer: This publication was reviewed and assessed by one reviewer only and it reflects their interpretation. Readers should come to their own conclusions by reading the original article. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, a hook of hamate fractures can have an acute (trauma) or insidious onset (stress fractures). Exquisite tenderness on palpation of the hook of the hamate and carpal tunnel views on x-ray may be useful in the diagnosis. Immobilisation with a short arm cast or wrist splinting for 6 to 8 weeks could be trialled in non-displaced fractures. Due to poor vascularisation, the non-union rate can be higher than 30% with conservative treatment. A hand surgeon review may be appropriate to identify the best treatment for the client. URL : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hcl.2021.06.013 No Abstract available publications = Total number of papers citing this research supporting = Citation statements supporting the findings mentioning = Neutral citation statements contrasting = Citation statements not supporting the findings

Arthritis as a risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome: A meta-analysis. Shiri, R. (2016) Level of Evidence : 1a- Follow recommendation : 👍 👍 👍 (3/4 thumbs up) Type of study : Diagnostic, Therapeutic Topic : Hand osteoartritis - Association with carpal tunnel This is a systematic review and meta-analysis on the association between hand osteoarthritis (OA) and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Five prospective/cohort studies were included in the present review for a total of 20,574 participants. The studies compared the prevalence of CTS in people with and without hand OA. The results showed that people with hand OA were 2 (95% CI: 1.7 to 2.8) times more likely to present with CTS compared with their healthy counterparts. Disclaimer: This publication was reviewed and assessed by one reviewer only and it reflects their interpretation. Readers should come to their own conclusions by reading the original article. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, people with hand OA are more likely to present with carpal tunnel syndrome compared to people without hand OA. It may therefore be important to assess the presence of sensory impairments in these clients and perform a few tests if the clinical presentation is suggestive of this condition. It is also important to remember that people with hand OA presenting with neuropathic pain report greater levels of pain intensity, greater number of pain medication and disease burden . URL : https://doi.org/10.3109/03009742.2015.1114141 Abstract Objectives: The effects of inflammatory and degenerative arthritis on carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) are not well known. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess whether rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) increase the risk of CTS. Method: Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate until January 2015. Twenty-three (five cohort, 10 case control, and eight cross sectional) studies qualified for the meta-analyses. A random-effects meta-analysis was used and heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed. Results: Both RA and OA were associated with CTS. Pooled unadjusted odds ratios (ORs) were 1.91 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.33–2.75, I2 = 55.2%, nine studies, n = 10 688] for arthritis (either inflammatory or degenerative), 2.91 (95% CI 2.33–3.62, I2 = 22.3%, 11 studies, n = 74 730) for RA, and 2.13 (95% CI 1.65–2.76, I2 = 39.2%, five studies, n = 20 574) for OA of any joint. Pooled confounder-adjusted ORs were 1.96 (95% CI 1.21–3.18, I2 = 73.1%, six studies, n = 11 542) for arthritis, 1.96 (95% CI 1.57–2.44, I2 = 32.2%, eight studies, n = 72 212) for RA, and 1.87 (95% CI 1.64–2.13, I2 = 0%, two studies, n = 19 480) for OA. There was no evidence of publication bias, and excluding cross-sectional studies or studies appraised as having a high risk of selection bias did not change the magnitude of the associations. Conclusions: The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that both RA and OA increase the risk of CTS. Further prospective studies on the effect of wrist OA on CTS are needed. publications = Total number of papers citing this research supporting = Citation statements supporting the findings mentioning = Neutral citation statements contrasting = Citation statements not supporting the findings

In vivo evidence of lumbricals incursion into the carpal tunnel in healthy hands: An ultrasonographic cross sectional study. Nadar, M. S., H. A. Amr, F. S. Manee and A. A. Ali (2022) Level of Evidence : 2b Follow recommendation : 👍 👍 (2/4 thumbs up) Type of study : Aetiology Topic : Lumbricals - Carpal tunnel incursion This cross-sectional cohort study assessed the effect of fingers flexion on lubricals incursion within the carpal tunnel. A total of 20 healthy participants were included in the study. Ultrasound measurements were taken to assess the movement of lumbricals into the carpal tunnel during finger extension, partial finger flexion (50%), and full finger flexion. The results showed that 80% of the lumbricals entered the carpal tunnel during full finger flexion. The lumbricals that most consistently entered the carpal tunnel were the middle finger and ring finger. Disclaimer: This publication was reviewed and assessed by one reviewer only and it reflects their interpretation. Readers should come to their own conclusions by reading the original article. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, most lumbricals enter the carpal tunnel during finger flexion. In particular, the middle and ring fingers lumbricals consistently do so. In light of this information, some of our clients with carpal tunnel may benefit from the use of a relative motion splint keeping the middle and ring finger in relative extension compared to the index and little finger. Further research is necessary to assess whether this intervention would indeed have a beneficial effect. We have a coupple of other synopses on lumbricals, more specifically one about the origin of their name and the assessment/treatment of lumbrical tears in climbers. URL : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2022.03.003 Abstract Introduction: During finger flexion, the tendons of flexor digitorum profundus migrate proximally, along with their attached lumbrical muscles. This incursion was suggested to extend into the Carpal Tunnel. Ultrasonographic imaging can be used to assess in vivo soft tissue behavior and incursion. Purpose: of the study To clinically quantify the lumbrical muscles incursion in different finger positions. Study Design Cross sectional, observational study. Methods: The lumbricals of 20 healthy adults with no history of hand injuries were evaluated with neuromuscular ultrasound imaging (n = 160 lumbricals). The lumbrical muscles migration was measured as the participants actively moved their fingers from full extension to 50% flexion, and 100% flexion. Results: Of the 160 lumbricals measures, the incursion occurred at 18.1% of fingers at 50% finger flexion, and increased to 79.4% during full finger flexion. The lumbricals migrated a total of 2.99 cm after full finger flexion, and ended up 0.76 cm (SD = 0.86 cm) inside the Carpal Tunnel. The metacarpophalangeal joint range of motion of the index finger at the point where the lumbricals entered the distal border of the Transverse Carpal Ligament was 84.4° (SD = 6.8°). The Carpal Tunnel cross-sectional area during finger extension was 1.68 (0.35) cm2, and increased to 1.81 (0.33) cm2 after full finger flexion. Conclusion: This study showed direct evidence of lumbrical incursion into the Carpal Tunnel during finger flexion. The cross-sectional area of the Carpal Tunnel increased during full finger flexion in comparison to full finger extension, supplementing the evidence of increase content within the Carpal Tunnel. The findings of this study have significant clinical implications for the conservative treatment of the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. publications = Total number of papers citing this research supporting = Citation statements supporting the findings mentioning = Neutral citation statements contrasting = Citation statements not supporting the findings

Prognostic factors for response to treatment by corticosteroid injection or surgery in carpal tunnel syndrome (palms study): A prospective multicenter cohort study Jerosch-Herold, C., L. Shepstone, J. Houghton, E. C. F. Wilson and J. Blake (2019) Level of Evidence : 2b Follow recommendation : 👍 👍 (2/4 thumb up) Type of study : Prognostic Topic : Carpal tunnel response to cortisone injection - predictor This is a longitudinal cohort study assessing prognostic factors associated with improvements following corticosteroid injections for people with carpal tunnel syndrome. Participants were included (N = 150) if they presented with nerve conduction impairments suggestive of carpal tunnel syndrome and confirmed by a neurophysiologist or hand surgeon. Several potential prognostic variables were collected and they included overall health, mental health, symptoms duration, and the number of cortisone injections provided. Participants were defined as responders after cortisone injection if symptoms were "slightly better" or "much improved". Data were collected every 6 months, for up to 18 months. The results showed that longer symptom duration and a greater number of cortisone injections were associated with lower chances of success with cortisone injections. Disclaimer: This publication was reviewed and assessed by one reviewer only and it reflects their interpretation. Readers should come to their own conclusions by reading the original article. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, cortisone injections for carpal tunnel syndrome may be more successful if clients have been complaining of symptoms for a shorter period of time. In addition, if clients have had previous cortisone injections, the likelihood of improvement is reduced. Prior to cortisone injections, ultrasound imaging may be useful to exclude the presence of a space-invading lesion . Cortisone injections may be a useful conservative treatment intervention and they appear to be effective in our clients (≥ 40 years old) with moderate/severe carpal tunnel syndrome . URL : https://doi.org/10.1002/mus.26459 Abstract INTRODUCTION Studies of prognosis for surgery and corticosteroid injection for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) have considered only a limited range of explanatory variables for outcome. METHODS Data were prospectively collected on patient-reported symptoms, physical and psychological functioning, comorbidity, and quality of life at baseline and every 6 months for up to 2 years. Outcomes were patient-rated change over a 6-month period and symptom-severity score at 18 months. RESULTS In total, 754 patients with CTS completed baseline questionnaires, and 626 (83%) completed follow-up to 18 months. Multivariable modeling identified, independent of symptom severity at outset, higher health utility, fewer comorbidities, and lower anxiety as significant predictors of better outcome from surgery. In patients treated by steroid injection, independent of symptom severity at outset, shorter duration of symptoms and having no prior injection were significant predictors of better outcome. DISCUSSION These multivariable models of outcome may inform shared decision making about treatment for CTS. publications = Total number of papers citing this research supporting = Citation statements supporting the findings mentioning = Neutral citation statements contrasting = Citation statements not supporting the findings

Cast selection and non-union rates for acute scaphoid fractures treated conservatively: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Siotos, C., et al. (2022) Level of Evidence : 1a- Follow recommendation : 👍 👍 👍 (3/4 thumbs up) Type of study : Diagnostic, Therapeutic Topic : Scaphoid fractures - When to immobilise This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of the non-union rate of scaphoid fractures treated with different types of casts. In particular, the rate of non-union was compared between people whose thumb was immobilised or not. In addition, above and below elbow cast non-union rate were compared. Seven studies were included in the present review for a total of 762 participants. For the subgroup comparison thumb vs no thumb, 353 participants were included. The definition of non-union varied across studies, however, most of the studies defined it as evidence of fracture line on x-ray beyond normal healing times. The results showed that there were no statistically significant differences between casting type and non-union rate. Overall, the rate of non-union was 10%. Disclaimer: This publication was reviewed and assessed by one reviewer only and it reflects their interpretation. Readers should come to their own conclusions by reading the original article. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, leaving the thumb free to move does not increase the chance of non-union in people immobilised for a scaphoid fracture. The choice between including or not the thumb is therefore based on the client's comfort. Scaphoid fractures are usually conservatively managed if the lesion involves the tubercle/distal pole/ waist and if there is no displacement. In all other cases, a surgeon's review is required . If you are interested in clinical tests for the diagnosis of a scaphoid fracture, have a look at this previous synopsis . URL : https://doi.org/10.1080/2000656X.2021.2024439 Abstract Cast selection for conservatively treated acute scaphoid fractures remains controversial. Cast options include short arm versus long arm, and those that include the thumb or leave it free. We sought to investigate the role of how cast choice affects nonunion rates after conservative management of scaphoid fractures. We searched PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar from inception through July 14, 2020, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We extracted information of interest, including cast type, and non-union rates at the end of the treatment period. We then performed a meta-analysis using the random-effects model. We identified seven relevant studies. Non-union was observed in 15 out of 156 (9.6%) with short-arm cast and 13 out of the 124 (10.5%) with long-arm cast (OR = 0.79, 95% CI [0.19, 3.26], p = 0.74). Non-union was observed in 18 out of 174 (10.3%) with thumb immobilization cast and 18 out of the 179 (10.1%) without thumb immobilization (OR = 0.97, 95% CI [0.49, 1.94], p = 0.69). In our study, short arm casting was proven non-inferior to long arm casting. Similarly, casts without thumb immobilization were equally as effective as casts with thumb immobilization in terms of non-union rates for acute scaphoid fractures treated non-operatively. publications = Total number of papers citing this research supporting = Citation statements supporting the findings mentioning = Neutral citation statements contrasting = Citation statements not supporting the findings

Get a grip: Individual variations in grip strength are a marker of brain health. Carson, R. G. (2018) Level of Evidence : 5 Follow recommendation : 👍 (1/4 thumbs up) Type of study : Prognostic Topic : Grip strength - Index of general health This is an expert opinion reviewing the association between grip strength, body function, and neurological function in older people. The review starts by indicating how grip strength is a predictor of frailty and survival following several medical conditions (e.g. cancer). In addition, lower level grip strength results in greater difficulties during daily function. These difficulties are not limited to upper limb activities but to whole-body tasks, indicating that grip strength is associated with lower limb strength. In contrast to what I would have expected, grip strength is not significantly affected by the size of forearm muscles in older people, suggesting that grip strength (and strength in general) is more dependent on neuromuscular function rather than muscle morphology. This is confirmed by several studies showing associations between lower levels of grip strength and worse cognitive function (e.g. working memory, language). Disclaimer: This publication was reviewed and assessed by one reviewer only and it reflects their interpretation. Readers should come to their own conclusions by reading the original article. Clinical Take Home Message : Based on what we know today, grip strength is useful in screening for frailty/cognitive decline in middle-aged and older people. With such a simple test, which we regularly perform, we can gather a significant amount of information about our clients' cognitive and functional status. Previous research has also shown that grip strength can predict mortality in middle-aged people and upper limb maximum lifting capacity . Open Access URL : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2018.07.023 Abstract Demonstrations that grip strength has predictive power in relation to a range of health conditions—even when these are assessed decades later—has motivated claims that hand-grip dynamometry has the potential to serve as a “vital sign” for middle-aged and older adults. Central to this belief has been the assumption that grip strength is a simple measure of physical performance that provides a marker of muscle status in general, and sarcopenia in particular. It is now evident that while differences in grip strength between individuals are influenced by musculoskeletal factors, “lifespan” changes in grip strength within individuals are exquisitely sensitive to integrity of neural systems that mediate the control of coordinated movement. The close and pervasive relationships between age-related declines in maximum grip strength and expressions of cognitive dysfunction can therefore be understood in terms of the convergent functional and structural mediation of cognitive and motor processes by the human brain. In the context of aging, maximum grip strength is a discriminating measure of neurological function and brain health. publications = Total number of papers citing this research supporting = Citation statements supporting the findings mentioning = Neutral citation statements contrasting = Citation statements not supporting the findings