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Journal of Yeungnam Medical Science Apr 2024Physiatrists are facing with survivors from disasters in both the acute and chronic phases of muscle and nerve injuries. Similar to many other clinical conditions,...
BACKGROUND
Physiatrists are facing with survivors from disasters in both the acute and chronic phases of muscle and nerve injuries. Similar to many other clinical conditions, neuromusculoskeletal ultrasound can play a key role in the management of such cases (with various muscle/nerve injuries) as well. Accordingly, in this article, a recent single-center experience after the Turkey-Syria earthquake will be rendered.
METHODS
Ultrasound examinations were performed for various nerve/muscle lesions in 52 earthquake victims referred from different cities. Demographic features, type of injuries, and applied treatment procedures as well as detailed ultrasonographic findings are illustrated.
RESULTS
Of the 52 patients, 19 had incomplete peripheral nerve lesions of the brachial plexus (n=4), lumbosacral plexus (n=1), and upper and lower limbs (n=14).
CONCLUSION
The ultrasonographic approach during disaster relief is paramount as regards subacute and chronic phases of rehabilitation. Considering technological advances (e.g., portable machines), the use of on-site ultrasound examination in the (very) early phases of disaster response also needs to be on the agenda of medical personnel.
PubMed: 38576339
DOI: 10.12701/jyms.2024.00087 -
The Canadian Journal of Neurological... Apr 2024Paratonia is a form of hypertonia characterized by an inability to relax muscles in the setting of cognitive impairment. Paratonia results in pain, refusal of care, and...
Paratonia is a form of hypertonia characterized by an inability to relax muscles in the setting of cognitive impairment. Paratonia results in pain, refusal of care, and caregiver burden. We sent surveys to 67 Canadian physiatrists and neurologists regarding their experience treating paratonia with botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A). Twenty-seven survey respondents were included in the analysis. Thirteen percent of survey respondents treating paratonia with BoNT-A reported a significant clinically relevant improvement; 74% endorsed a moderately clinically relevant improvement; 13% endorsed a slight clinically relevant improvement. Ninety percent of survey respondents endorsed significant barriers in treating paratonia with BoNT-A.
PubMed: 38555970
DOI: 10.1017/cjn.2024.46 -
Reumatismo Mar 2024Melorheostosis is a rare, non-hereditary, benign bone disease characterized by abnormal bone growth. Generally, melorheostosis develops during childhood or adolescence... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
Melorheostosis is a rare, non-hereditary, benign bone disease characterized by abnormal bone growth. Generally, melorheostosis develops during childhood or adolescence and progresses gradually over time. This disease represents a true challenge to the physician because of its variability due to location, extension of the affected bone, and involvement of associated soft tissue. Pain management, physical therapy, and surgery may be recommended, depending on the individual case. This review aims to get an overview of the latest evidence relating to epidemiology, clinical and radiographic characteristics, diagnosis, and possible therapeutic strategies for melorheostosis and describe our experience through a clinical case.
METHODS
We designed a comprehensive literature search on melorheostosis in MEDLINE (via Pubmed) up to April 2023 and reviewed reports published in international journals.
RESULTS
The purpose is to highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the management of a rare disease such as melorheostosis. We discuss the role of different physicians, including genetists, rheumatologists, physiatrists, physical therapists, and orthopedic surgeons, in providing accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. We conducted a comprehensive review of the literature on the treatment of melorheostosis to support these findings. In addition, the article presents a case study of a patient suffering from melorheostosis, focusing on difficulties in reaching a correct diagnosis and attempts towards conservative and surgical interventions. The patient underwent hip arthroplasty, and the final result was an improvement in function and a reduction in pain.
CONCLUSIONS
Managing melorheostosis can be challenging, and there is no standardized treatment for this condition at the moment.
Topics: Adolescent; Humans; Melorheostosis; Pain; Pain Management; Treatment Outcome; Rare Diseases
PubMed: 38523583
DOI: 10.4081/reumatismo.2024.1621 -
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation... May 2024Physiatrists play a vital role in post-stroke dysphagia management not only by providing guidance on the risks, benefits, and efficacy of various treatment options but... (Review)
Review
Physiatrists play a vital role in post-stroke dysphagia management not only by providing guidance on the risks, benefits, and efficacy of various treatment options but also as advocates for patients' independence and quality of life. While swallow study results are often discussed broadly by acute stroke clinicians as "pass/fail" findings, physiatrists need a more nuanced working knowledge of dysphagia diagnosis and treatment that encompasses swallow pathophysiology, targeted treatment strategies, and prognosis for recovery. To that end, this review summarizes current clinical practice guidelines on dysphagia, nutrition and oral care, risks and benefits of differing enteral access routes, prognostic factors, and approaches to rehabilitation.
Topics: Humans; Enteral Nutrition; Deglutition Disorders; Quality of Life; Stroke; Stroke Rehabilitation
PubMed: 38514228
DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2023.07.001 -
Clinical Spine Surgery Mar 2024Retrospective review.
STUDY DESIGN
Retrospective review.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether the Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care (AM-PAC) "6-Clicks" score is associated with the development of postoperative ileus.
SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA
Adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery has a high complication rate. One common complication is postoperative ileus, and poor postoperative mobility has been implicated as a modifiable risk factor for this condition.
METHODS
Eighty-five ASD surgeries in which ≥5 levels were fused were identified in a single institution database. A physical therapist/physiatrist collected patients' daily postoperative AM-PAC scores, for which we assessed first, last, and daily changes. We used multivariable linear regression to determine the marginal effect of ileus on continuous AM-PAC scores; threshold linear regression with Bayesian information criterion to identify a threshold AM-PAC score associated with ileus; and multivariable logistic regression to determine the utility of the score thresholds when controlling for confounding variables.
RESULTS
Ten of 85 patients (12%) developed ileus. The mean day of developing ileus was postoperative day 3.3±2.35. The mean first and last AM-PAC scores were 16 and 18, respectively. On bivariate analysis, the mean first AM-PAC score was lower in patients with ileus than in those without (13 vs. 16; P<0.01). Ileus was associated with a first AM-PAC score of 3 points lower (Coef. -2.96; P<0.01) than that of patients without ileus. Patients with an AM-PAC score<13 had 8 times greater odds of developing ileus (P=0.023). Neither the last AM-PAC score nor the daily change in AM-PAC score was associated with ileus.
CONCLUSIONS
In our institutional cohort, a first AM-PAC score of <13, corresponding to an inability to walk or stand for more than 1 minute, was associated with the development of ileus. Early identification of patients who cannot walk or stand after surgery can help determine which patients would benefit from prophylactic management.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
Level-III.
PubMed: 38490976
DOI: 10.1097/BSD.0000000000001599 -
Physical condition and perceived fatigue in post-covid patients: An observational descriptive study.Sao Paulo Medical Journal = Revista... 2024Patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) often require hospital admission and experience sequelae such as chronic fatigue or low muscle mass. (Observational Study)
Observational Study
BACKGROUND
Patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) often require hospital admission and experience sequelae such as chronic fatigue or low muscle mass.
OBJECTIVE
To analyze the functional capacity of a cohort of patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 who required hospitalization.
DESIGN AND SETTING
An observational descriptive study was conducted on post-COVID-19 patients referred to the Rehabilitation Department of Gregorio Marañón Hospital (Madrid, SPAIN).
METHODS
Cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, body composition, and perception of fatigue and dyspnea were analyzed. Furthermore, the existing correlations between clinical variables and physical conditions were analyzed.
RESULTS
Forty-two patients who required hospital admission (80 ± 22.45 days) or intensive care unit (ICU) admission (58 ± 10.52 days) were analyzed. They presented with decreased strength, respiratory capacity, and moderate-to-severe perceived fatigue. Additionally, an inverse correlation was found between right-handgrip strength and days in the ICU, as well as the 6-minute walk test for women. Similarly, strength and fitness were negatively associated with perceived fatigue.
CONCLUSIONS
Post-COVID-19 patients showed low muscle function and low levels of physical fitness associated with high perceived fatigue.
Topics: Female; Humans; Body Composition; Cardiorespiratory Fitness; COVID-19; Disease Progression; Hand Strength; Male
PubMed: 38477734
DOI: 10.1590/1516-3180.2023.0167.R1.04122023 -
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) Feb 2024This study aims to describe a local community expert's perspective on the identification of and access to children's health assets and to gather proposals to promote...
This study aims to describe a local community expert's perspective on the identification of and access to children's health assets and to gather proposals to promote children's health and well-being within their community. The health asset approach is essential for health promotion, and there is evidence of its benefits to individuals' or communities' health when this approach is observed. Children's health assets are gaining increasing interest, but the literature that captures the perception of professionals working with children is scarce. Qualitative research designed with Delphi methodology was carried out with the participation of 25 professionals working in a neighbourhood with children and families. The participants stated that this neighbourhood was a good environment for the healthy and happy growth of children but pointed out that there were inequities. They emphasised the importance of economic and physical security and feeling loved. The absolute best aspects of the neighbourhood according to these experts were its support networks, mutual help, educational and health services, and green spaces, and the most deficient aspects were the possibility of a hopeful future and emotional support within the family unit. Poverty and/or the scarcity of economic resources were identified as the main barriers to accessing health assets. Special difficulties in access to health for migrant and Roma children were also identified. The panel of experts made concrete action proposals. It was recommended to support resources and services that already exist in their community. The experts prioritised work with families, education, working in conjunction with vulnerable groups, community participation, and networking.
PubMed: 38470616
DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12050506 -
American Journal of Physical Medicine &... Mar 2024Medical students can be powerful advocates for and in partnership with the disability community, yet opportunities for targeted advocacy training are sparse. In February...
Medical students can be powerful advocates for and in partnership with the disability community, yet opportunities for targeted advocacy training are sparse. In February 2023, a medical student-led workshop on disability advocacy for trainees took place at the Association of Academic Physiatrists' Annual Conference. The aims of this session were for trainees to (1) identify existing gaps in disability education at their institution and in policy around disability-related issues; (2) improve perceived ability to engage in disability-related education and policy-based advocacy; and (3) apply an intersectional lens to identify opportunities for intersectionality in disability advocacy. Pre- and post-session responses were anonymously submitted via Qualtrics. Of 31 pre-survey respondents, 18 responded to the post-survey, and 12 were identified as having matching unique identifiers. After the workshop, participants overall were more likely to report being very/somewhat confident about their ability to identify gaps in disability education at their institution (75.0% vs 100.0%, p = 0.011), policy around disability-related issues (41.7% vs 100.0%, p < 0.006), and opportunities for intersectionality in disability advocacy (33.3% vs 91.7%, p < 0.015). Participants were more likely to report being very/somewhat confident in engaging in education-based advocacy (58.3% vs 100.0%, p = 0.006), policy-based advocacy (16.7% vs 91.7%, p < 0.002) and intersectional disability advocacy (41.7% vs 91.7%, p < 0.006). All attendees strongly/somewhat agreed with the statements "I hope that this session will continue in future years" and "I think that other trainees would benefit from a similar course." This session was shown to effectively meet the intended goals of the program.
PubMed: 38466163
DOI: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000002465 -
Journal of Bodywork and Movement... Jan 2024Retinacula of the ankle are thickening of the deep fascia of the leg (crural fascia) and foot i.e. inseparable structures. Recent studies report their crucial role in...
BACKGROUND
Retinacula of the ankle are thickening of the deep fascia of the leg (crural fascia) and foot i.e. inseparable structures. Recent studies report their crucial role in functional stability and proprioception of the ankle.
CASE PRESENTATION
A 38-yr-old Caucasian man - with a history of lateral malleolus fracture 12 years ago, obesity and right ankle osteoarthritis - was referred to a physiatrist for a right ankle pain that had significantly worsened over the last year. During walking, the patient experienced stinging pain in the area of tibialis anterior and peroneus tertius muscles, and the superior extensor retinaculum. Magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography showed clear thicknening (2.05 mm) of the oblique superomedial band of the inferior extensor retinaculum. Sonopalpation was performed to precisely evaluate/confirm the site of maximum pain. Foot function index (FFI) score was 42.
RESULTS
Subsequently, the patient was prescribed fascial manipulation, and he had clinical improvement after the first session (FFI: 21). At 1-month follow-up, the patient was still asymptomatic without any functional limitation (FFI: 24). US imaging confirmed the decreased thickness of the oblique superomedial band of the extensor retinaculum (1.35 mm).
CONCLUSION
Fascial Manipulation® appears to be a useful tool to reduce thickness, stiffness, and pain in this case as displayed by the ultrasound Imaging.
Topics: Male; Humans; Ankle; Ankle Joint; Ultrasonography; Fascia; Pain; Osteoarthritis
PubMed: 38432847
DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2023.11.016 -
Neurologia Mar 2024Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is classified according to neurophysiological and histological findings, the inheritance pattern, and the underlying genetic defect....
INTRODUCTION
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is classified according to neurophysiological and histological findings, the inheritance pattern, and the underlying genetic defect. The objective of these guidelines is to offer recommendations for the diagnosis, prognosis, follow-up, and treatment of this disease in Spain.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
These consensus guidelines were developed through collaboration by a multidisciplinary panel encompassing a broad group of experts on the subject, including neurologists, paediatric neurologists, geneticists, physiatrists, and orthopaedic surgeons.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The diagnosis of CMT is clinical, with patients usually presenting a common or classical phenotype. Clinical assessment should be followed by an appropriate neurophysiological study; specific recommendations are established for the parameters that should be included. Genetic diagnosis should be approached sequentially; once PMP22 duplication has been ruled out, if appropriate, a next-generation sequencing study should be considered, taking into account the limitations of the available techniques. To date, no pharmacological disease-modifying treatment is available, but symptomatic management, guided by a multidiciplinary team, is important, as is proper rehabilitation and orthopaedic management. The latter should be initiated early to identify and improve the patient's functional deficits, and should include individualised exercise guidelines, orthotic adaptation, and assessment of conservative surgeries such as tendon transfer. The follow-up of patients with CMT is exclusively clinical, and ancillary testing is not necessary in routine clinical practice.
PubMed: 38431252
DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2024.02.008