Improve Joint Function Research Articles

Effect of acupuncture duration in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A secondary analysis of a multi-center randomized controlled trial 治疗时长对针刺治疗膝骨关节炎疗效的影响:一项多中心随机对照试验的二次分析

ObjectiveTo explore the influence of acupuncture duration on the effect of acupuncute for patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). MethodsThis secondary analysis was conducted based on the data of a randomized controlled trial about acupuncture on KOA. A total of 480 patients were recruited at nine centers. Only data from the manual acupuncture (MA) group and electroacupuncture (EA) group were included in this secondary analysis. The needles were retained for 30-min each time and treatment was given three times a week for 8 weeks. The follow-up visit lasted until week 26. Outcomes were numerical rating scale (NRS) on pain, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) function and the response rate. ResultsThe NRS and WOMAC function at week 8 were lower than those at week 4 (P<0.05), and were no significant difference compared with those at week 26 in MA and EA groups (P>0.05). Greater changes were observed in NRS and WOMAC function during 0-4 weeks compared with those during 4-8 weeks (P<0.05) in both groups. The response rate at week 8 was higher than it at week 4 (P<0.05), and was no significant difference compared with it at week 26 (P>0.05) in both groups. Association was found between BMI and changes of NRS (P<0.05), but not between BMI and WOMAC function (P>0.05) in MA group, while no asscoaition was found between BMI and NRS or WOMAC function in EA group (P>0.05). There was no association found between other factors and NRS or WOMAC function in both groups (P>0.05). ConclusionFor KOA patients, 8-week acupuncture was more effective than 4-week acupuncture in relieving pain and improving joint function, but growth rate of the effect slowed down with increasing duration of intervention. It was uncertain whether the long-term effect of 8-week acupuncture was better than 4-week acupuncture. Further studies are required to further determine the effect of duration of intervention.

Periprosthetic Joint Infection Diagnosis: A Narrative Review.

Replacement of native joints aims to restore patients' quality of life by relieving pain and improving joint function. While periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) affects a small percentage of patients, with an estimated incidence of 1-9% following primary total joint replacement, this postoperative complication necessitates a lengthy hospitalisation, extended antibiotic treatment and further surgery. It is highlighted that establishing the correct diagnosis of periprosthetic infections is critical in order for clinicians to avoid unnecessary treatments in patients with aseptic failure. Of note, the PJI diagnosis could not purely rely upon clinical manifestations given the fact that heterogeneity in host factors (e.g., age and comorbidities), variability in infection period, difference in anatomical location of the involved joint and discrepancies in pathogenicity/virulence of the causative organisms may confound the clinical picture. Furthermore, intra-operative contamination is considered to be the main culprit that can result in early or delayed infection, with the hematogenous spread being the most prevalent mode. To elaborate, early and hematogenous infections often start suddenly, whereas chronic late infections are induced by less virulent bacteria and tend to manifest in a more quiescent manner. Last but not least, viruses and fungal microorganisms exert a role in PJI pathogenesis.

Clinical Efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Orthopedic in the Treatment of Senile Osteoarthritis

Objective: This paper aims to explore and analyze the clinical effect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) orthopedic treatment on elderly patients with osteoarthritis. Methods: The study period is from January 2021 to June 2023. 62 elderly patients with osteoarthritis admitted to our hospital were selected and divided into the study group (n = 31) and the control group (n = 31) using the random number table scheme. The patients in the control group were treated with conventional Western medicine acemetacin, and the patients in the study group were treated with traditional Chinese medicine orthopedic. The treatment options included manual massage, traditional Chinese medicine fumigation, and oral administration of traditional Chinese medicine. The clinical effective rate, osteoarthritis function Japanese Orthopedic Association score (JOA), visual analogue pain score (VAS), and incidence of adverse reactions were compared between the two groups. Results: The clinical effective rate of patients in the study group was higher than that of the control group (P &lt; 0.05), the JOA score of the patients in the study group was higher than that of the control group after treatment (P &lt; 0.05), while the VAS score of the patients in the study group was lower than that of the control group after treatment (P &lt; 0.05). Plus, the incidence of adverse reactions in the study group was lower than that in the control group (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: TCM orthopedic treatment for elderly patients with osteoarthritis has a significant effect, it can improve joint function, relieve pain, with a low incidence of adverse reactions, which can be widely applied in clinical practice.

Oral supplementation with fish cartilage hydrolysate in an adult population suffering from knee pain and function discomfort: results from an innovative approach combining an exploratory clinical study and an ex vivo clinical investigation

BackgroundAging is frequently associated with impairments of the musculoskeletal system and many elderly people experience joint discomfort or pain which might reduce their ability to move and consequently alter their quality of life. A beneficial effect of fish cartilage hydrolysate (FCH) on pain and joint function has recently been shown in an ACLT/pMMx osteoarthritis rat model.MethodsWe therefore performed an exploratory, non-comparative, multi-centric clinical trial including 33 subjects with moderate knee joint discomfort and loss of functionality to investigate the efficacy of FCH on their algo-functional status. We further determined the potential health benefit of FCH in an original clinical ex vivo study investigating the role of FCH human metabolites on primary human chondrocytes.ResultsFCH significantly improved knee pain and function, as assessed by the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Moreover, FCH significantly reduced pain at rest and while walking, and patient global assessment (PGA), as assessed by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and improved patients’ quality of life (SF-36). FCH metabolites decreased the synthesis of catabolic factors (MMP-13) and pro-inflammatory mediators (NO, PGE2) and limited the inhibitory effect of IL-1β on the synthesis of cartilage matrix components (GAG and collagen).ConclusionsThus, these data provide insights on the mode of action of FCH in humans and contribute to explain how FCH may relieve pain and improve joint function in subjects with knee discomfort. Although these preliminary data need to be confirmed in a randomized controlled trial, they strongly support the potential health benefit of such an active ingredient. Trial registration: The study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov with the identifier NCT04420091 (09/06/2020).

Hyaluronic Acid in Rheumatology.

Hyaluronic acid (HA), also known as hyaluronan, is an anionic glycosaminoglycan widely distributed throughout various tissues of the human body. It stands out from other glycosaminoglycans as it lacks sulfation and can attain considerable size: the average human synovial HA molecule weighs about 7 million Dalton (Da), equivalent to roughly 20,000 disaccharide monomers; although some sources report a lower range of 3-4 million Da. In recent years, HA has garnered significant attention in the field of rheumatology due to its involvement in joint lubrication, cartilage maintenance, and modulation of inflammatory and/or immune responses. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of HA's involvement in rheumatology, covering its physiology, pharmacology, therapeutic applications, and potential future directions for enhancing patient outcomes. Nevertheless, the use of HA therapy in rheumatology remains controversial with conflicting evidence regarding its efficacy and safety. In conclusion, HA represents a promising therapeutic option to improve joint function and alleviate inflammation and pain.

Patient-Relevant Outcomes Following First Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty, by Diagnosis: An Analysis of Implant Survivorship, Mortality, Serious Medical Complications, and Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Utilizing the National Joint Registry Data Set.

The purpose of this study was to investigate patient-relevant outcomes following first revision total knee arthroplasties (rTKAs) performed for different indications. This population-based cohort study utilized data from the United Kingdom National Joint Registry, Hospital Episode Statistics Admitted Patient Care, National Health Service Patient-Reported Outcome Measures, and the Civil Registrations of Death. Patients undergoing a first rTKA between January 1, 2009, and June 30, 2019, were included in our data set. Patient-relevant outcomes included implant survivorship (up to 11 years postoperatively), mortality and serious medical complications (up to 90 days postoperatively), and patient-reported outcome measures (at 6 months postoperatively). A total of 24,540 first rTKAs were analyzed. The patient population was 54% female and 62% White, with a mean age at the first rTKA of 69 years. At 2 years postoperatively, the cumulative incidence of re-revision surgery ranged from 2.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.9% to 3.4%) following rTKA for progressive arthritis to 16.3% (95% CI, 15.2% to 17.4%) following rTKA for infection. The mortality rate at 90 days was highest following rTKA for fracture (3.6% [95% CI, 2.5% to 5.1%]) and for infection (1.8% [95% CI, 1.5% to 2.2%]) but was <0.5% for other indications. The rate of serious medical complications requiring hospital admission within 90 days was highest for patients treated for fracture (21.8% [95% CI, 17.9% to 26.3%]) or infection (12.5% [95% CI, 11.2% to 13.9%]) and was lowest for those treated for progressive arthritis (4.3% [95% CI, 3.3% to 5.5%]). Patients who underwent rTKA for stiffness or unexplained pain had some of the poorest postoperative joint function (mean Oxford Knee Score, 24 and 25 points, respectively) and had the lowest proportion of responders (48% and 55%, respectively). This study found large differences in patient-relevant outcomes among different indications for first rTKA. The rate of complications was highest following rTKA for fracture or infection. Although rTKA resulted in large improvements in joint function for most patients, those who underwent surgery for stiffness and unexplained pain had worse outcomes. Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Effectiveness of Yoga in reducing IL-6 serum level in elderly with knee osteoarthritis

Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive degenerative disease. Yoga exercise is one of the non-pharmacological treatments for knee OA. It can improve joint function through a mind-body connection mechanism. It is also non-invasive and relatively safe to do at all ages, including the elderly. Interleukin-6 is one of the circulating inflammation biomarkers in knee OA. This study showed yoga's effectiveness objectively by measuring inflammatory biomarkers' changes, namely interleukin-6 (IL-6) in knee OA cases. Methods: This research was a randomized control trial. The study was conducted in 8 weeks when the blood sampling and serum IL-6 level quantifications were taken. Results: There was a significant difference (p &lt;0.005) and large Effect Size (ES &gt; 0,8) in serum IL-6 levels before and after treatment between yoga and the control group. Conclusion: Therefore, we conclude that yoga is a lifestyle modification intervention that improves the clinical condition of knee OA by altering the inflammatory control pathways activity. We highly recommend that future studies use a larger sample size and analyze more specific biomarkers describing joint degradation in knee OA cases.

Uloga medicinske sestre u artroplastici kuka i koljena u jednodnevnoj kirurgiji

Background. Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that has been shown extremely effective in reducing pain, improving joint function and overall quality of life. As a result, arthroplasty is steadily increasing as a procedure, especially in the hip and knee, thereby placing a financial burden on the healthcare system. It is believed that performing hip and knee replacements in day surgery should decrease public health costs. Aim. The aim of the research is to determine the current knowledge and doubts arising from the literature published so far regarding the performance of hip and knee arthroplasty in day surgery, perioperative nursing care, as well as detecting possible potential perioperative complications. Methods. The research of literature was conducted through the electronic databases, Medline via Pub Med (PMC), from March 3, 1992, till December 30, 2021. Key words used in the literature search are arthroplasty, replacement, hip, knee, adverse effects, ambulatory surgical procedures, nursing. Total of 22 papers was analyzed. Results. A clinical algorithm is suggested to accelerate recovery as a possible solution to complications of arthroplasty in outpatient procedures. These algorithms reduce the cost of treatment and the risk of complications. In addition to the aforementioned benefits, perioperative outcomes and patient satisfaction are also improved, enabling recovery in the comfort of one's own home, which is especially important for the successful rehabilitation of elderly patients. Nurses should develop empathy for patients, respecting their individuality and right to participate in treatment. Patients expect professionalism and trust from nurses and have specific expectations of nursing care. Conclusion. Minimally invasive arthroplasty results in less trauma, less blood loss, less postoperative pain, painful surgical reactions, and improved hip mobility. The development of surgery and anesthesia in ambulatory surgery requires nurses to play a particularly important role in postoperative recovery

Frozen Shoulder Therapy using Acupuncture

Introduction: A frozen shoulder is a medical condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder, limiting mobility and daily activities. Traditional therapy is not always effective, so acupuncture therapy is an alternative that can improve joint function and mobility. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the benefits of acupuncture therapy in cases of frozen shoulders. Method: The research method used is a case study with a pre-post test design. The research sample consisted of five patients with frozen shoulder. Result and Discussion: The therapy was carried out three times, and the acupuncture points used were LI 15, LI 14, SI 9, SI 10, SI 11, SI 12, and GV16. The variables observed were the level of pain and stiffness in the shoulder before and after acupuncture therapy. Conclusion: The results showed that acupuncture therapy for treating frozen shoulder showed significant changes, with an average previous VAS scale of 4.8 to 0.6, so it can be concluded that acupuncture has been proven effective as an alternative therapy for frozen shoulder cases

The use of platelet-rich plasma in osteoarthritis - the current state of knowledge

Introduction and objective: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic condition characterized by progressive damage to the joint cartilage and bone. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has gained increasing interest as a potential therapeutic approach for relieving symptoms and improving joint function. The aim of this article is to present the current knowledge regarding the PRP preparation method, mechanisms of action, and treatment outcomes in OA based on scientific literature and recent research. Materials and methods: A review of scientific literature available on Google Scholar, PubMed, and Via Medica journal database was conducted using relevant keywords. State of knowledge: Platelet-rich plasma is obtained from the patient's own blood using differential centrifugation method, resulting in a concentration of platelets (PLT) that is 300-700% higher compared to the baseline. PLTs release various biologically active substances, including growth factors, which stimulate tissue repair and regeneration processes. Numerous studies have shown that PRP administration in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee and hip joints leads to pain reduction and improved joint function. The therapeutic effect yields long-lasting results, lasting up to 12 months after the completion of the treatment. Conclusions: The use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the treatment of osteoarthritis presents a promising alternative to conventional therapies. However, further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of PRP on a larger sample size and assess the long-term effects of this therapy. Knowledge regarding dosage, treatment protocols, and the duration of therapy remains limited.

Efficacy and safety of flurbiprofen cataplasms versus loxoprofen sodium cataplasms in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial.

Clinical trial evidence is limited to identify better topical Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for treating knee osteoarthritis (OA). We aimed to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of flurbiprofen cataplasms (FPC) with loxoprofen sodium cataplasms (LSC) in treating patients with knee OA. This is an open-label, non-inferiority randomized controlled trial conducted at Peking University Shougang Hospital. Overall, 250 patients with knee OA admitted from October 2021 to April 2022 were randomly assigned to FPC and LSC treatment groups in a 1:1 ratio. Both medications were administered to patients for 28 days. The primary outcome was the change of pain measured by visual analog scale (VAS) score from baseline to day 28 (range, 0-10 points; higher score indicates worse pain; non-inferiority margin: 1 point; superiority margin: 0 point). There were four secondary outcomes, including the extent of pain relief, the change trends of VAS scores, joint function scores measured by the Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and adverse events. Among 250 randomized patients (age, 62.8 ± 10.5 years; 61.4% [153/249] women), 234 (93.6%) finally completed the trial. In the intention-to-treat analysis, the decline of the VAS score for the 24-h most intense pain in the FPC group was non-inferior, and also superior to that in the LSC group (differences and 95% confidence interval, 0.414 (0.147-0.681); P <0.001 for non-inferiority; P = 0.001 for superiority). Similar results were observed of the VAS scores for the current pain and pain during exercise. WOMAC scores were also lower in the FPC group at week 4 (12.50 [8.00-22.50] vs. 16.00 [11.00-27.00], P = 0.010), mainly driven by the dimension of daily activity difficulty. In addition, the FPC group experienced a significantly lower incidence of adverse events (5.6% [7/124] vs. 33.6% [42/125], P <0.001), including irritation, rash and pain of the skin, and sticky hair uncovering pain. This study suggested compelling evidence that FPC is superior to LSC for treating patients with knee OA in pain relief, joint function improvement, and safety profile. ChiCTR.org.cn, ChiCTR2100054822.

Is Radiofrequency Ablation Superior to Intra-Articular Injections for the Treatment of Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis?-A Systematic Review.

The radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is considered a valid, minimally invasive treatment modality for the management of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA). The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of RFA with that of commonly used intra-articular injections for the persistent knee pain due to OA. Medline/Pubmed and Scopus databases were systematically searched up to April 2023 to identify studies comparing the effect of RFA and intra-articular injections (IAIs) on knee OA. Nine studies including 899 patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in the systematic review. The RFA procedure was related with improved knee pain relief compared to IAIs at 3-, 6- and 12-month follow-up (p < 0.001). Similarly, functional improvement was greater in RFA treatment than that observed after hyaluronic acid (HA), steroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections (Visual Analogue Scale p < 0.001, Numeric Rating Scale p = 0.019, Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index p = 0.012). The overall procedural complication rate of RFA was 10.2% and was higher than steroid (p = 0.023) and PRP (p = 0.017) injections. However, no severe adverse events were reported. For patients with symptomatic knee OA, RFA seems to be more effective than IAIs in alleviating pain and improving joint function, despite the relatively higher incidence of non-serious adverse events. However, due to the limited number of studies and patients, this result should be interpreted with caution and not be generalized to the entire knee OA population.

High tibial osteotomy improves balance control in patients with knee osteoarthritis and a varus deformity

BackgroundImpaired knee stability is observed in patients with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis (OA) and varus malalignment. Although high tibial osteotomy (HTO) is widely used to treat OA-related knee varus deformity, its long-term influence on balance control in OA patients is poorly reported. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of HTO on balance control and assess its biological and functional significance.MethodsThirty-two patients with medial compartment knee OA as well as varus deformity who were scheduled for HTO underwent static posturographic tests one month pre- and three months as well as one year postoperatively, respectively, along with forty matched control subjects. Radiographic and clinical evaluations were synchronously carried out on patients pre- and postoperatively.ResultsDecreased postural sway was observed in patients one year after HTO. When compared to the control subjects, more postural sway was found in patients one month pre- and three months postoperatively. No difference was observed between the patients and control subjects one year postoperatively. The alignment and joint function of the affected knees significantly improved after HTO.ConclusionsThis study revealed that HTO improves balance control in patients with knee OA and varus deformity. Correct alignment and improved joint function enhance the likelihood of normal postural stability. Hence, this intervention allows the knee joint to recover its corrective compensatory role in postural regulation and should be taken into account for managing knee OA patients.

Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine combination in patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis: A long-term observational study in Russia.

Oral treatment of glucosamine (GA) combined with chondroitin sulfate (CS) was reportedly effective for pain relief and function improvement in osteoarthritis patients with moderate to severe knee pain in clinical trials. While the effectiveness of GA and CS on both clinical and radiological findings has been demonstrated, only a few high-quality trials exist. Therefore, controversy regarding their effectiveness in real-world clinical practice remains. To investigate the impact of GA + CS on clinical outcomes of patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis in routine clinical practice. A multicenter prospective observational cohort study included 1102 patients of both genders with knee or hip osteoarthritis (Kellgren & Lawrence grades I-III) in 51 clinical centers in the Russian Federation from November 20, 2017, to March 20, 2020, who had started to receive oral capsules of glucosamine hydrochloride 500 mg and CS 400 mg according to the approved patient information leaflet starting from 3 capsules daily for 3 wk, followed by a reduced dosage of 2 capsules daily before study inclusion (minimal recommended treatment duration is 3-6 mo). Changes in subscale scores [Pain, Symptoms, Function, and Quality of Life (QOL)] of the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS)/Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) questionnaires during the observational period (up to 54-64 wk with a total of 4 visits). Patients' treatment satisfaction, data on the combined oral use of glucosamine hydrochloride and CS, concomitant use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and adverse events (AEs) were also evaluated. A total of 1102 patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis were included in the study. The mean patient age was 60.4 years, most patients were women (87.8%), and their average body mass index was 29.49 kg/m2. All subscale scores (Pain, Symptoms, Function, and QOL) of the KOOS and HOOS demonstrated clinically and statistically significant improvements. In patients with knee osteoarthritis, the mean score increases from baseline to the end of Week 64 were 22.87, 20.78, 16.60, and 24.87 on Pain, Symptoms, Physical Function (KOOS-PS), and QOL subscales (P < 0.001 for all), respectively. In patients with hip osteoarthritis, the mean score increases were 22.81, 19.93, 18.77, and 22.71 on Pain, Symptoms, Physical Function (HOOS-PS), and QOL subscales (P < 0.001 for all), respectively. The number of patients using any NSAIDs decreased from 43.1% to 13.5% (P < 0.001) at the end of the observation period. Treatment-related AEs occurred in 2.8% of the patients and mainly included gastrointestinal disorders [25 AEs in 24 (2.2%) patients]. Most patients (78.1%) were satisfied with the treatment. Long-term oral GA + CS was associated with decreased pain, reduced concomitant NSAID therapy, improved joint function and QOL in patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis in routine clinical practice.

Lower limb joint loading in patients with unilateral hip osteoarthritis during bipedal stance and the effect of total hip replacement.

Osteoarthritis of the hip is a common condition that affects older adults. Total hip replacement is the end-stage treatment to relief pain and improve joint function. Little is known about the mechanical load distribution during the activity of bipedal stance, which is an important daily activity for older adults who need to rest more frequently. This study investigated the distribution of the hip and knee joint moments during bipedal stance in patients with unilateral hip osteoarthritis and how the distribution changed 1year after total hip replacement. Kinematic and kinetic data from bipedal stance were recorded. External hip and knee adduction moments were calculated and load distribution over both limbs was calculated using the symmetry angle. Preoperatively, the non-affected limb carried 10% more body weight than the affected limb when standing on two legs. Moreover, the mean external hip and knee adduction moments of the non-affected limb were increased compared to the affected limb. At follow-up no significant differences were observed between the patients' limbs. Preoperative and postoperative changes in hip adduction moment were mainly explained by the combination of the vertical ground reaction force and the hip adduction angle. Stance width also explained changes in the hip and knee adduction moments of the affected leg. Furthermore, as with walking, bipedal standing also showed an asymmetric mechanical load distribution in patients with unilateral hip osteoarthritis. Overall, the findings suggest the need for preventive therapy concepts that focus not only on walking but also on optimizing stance towards a balanced load distribution of both legs.

Calcitriol-Loaded Multifunctional Nanospheres with Superlubricity for Advanced Osteoarthritis Treatment.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by the lubrication dysfunction of a cartilage sliding interface caused by chronic joint inflammation, and effective nonsurgical therapy for advanced OA remains lacking. Addressing chronic joint inflammation, lubrication dysfunction, and cartilage-tissue degradation simultaneously may hopefully tackle this challenge. Herein, we developed superlubricative zein@alginate/strontium@calcitriol (ZASC) nanospheres to treat advanced OA. ZASC was confirmed to significantly improve joint lubrication through traditional tribological tests and our proposed tribological experiment to mimic the intra-articular condition based on the human medial tibiofemoral joint tissues. This finding was attributed to the hydration lubrication formed around the alginate-strontium spheres that enabled ball-bearing lubrication and the filling of cartilage defects. Moreover, ZASCs that released calcitriol in a sustained manner showed proliferative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptosis effects in vitro. Further experiments demonstrated that ZASC exerted chondroprotective effects by inhibiting the breakdown of the extracellular matrix in patient-derived OA cartilage explants. In vivo results demonstrated that ZASC can effectively maintain a normal gait to improve joint function, inhibit abnormal bone remodeling and cartilage degradation in early OA and can effectively reverse the advanced OA progression. Therefore, ZASC is a potentially nonsurgical therapeutic strategy for advanced OA treatments.

The Role of VARVIMAX™ In the Treatment of Chronic Inflammation and Pain in Arthritis and Fibromyalgia

Background: Arthritis and fibromyalgia are chronic inflammatory conditions that cause significant pain and discomfort in affected individuals. Current treatments, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are associated with adverse effects and do not always provide adequate relief. Therefore, there is a need for safe and effective treatments for chronic inflammation and pain in arthritis and fibromyalgia.&#x0D; Review of the Literature: This review aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of VARVIMAX™, a dietary supplement derived from a plant extract, for managing chronic pain in arthritis and fibromyalgia. According to the literature, the prevalence of fibromyalgia and arthritis is still high and even these two conditions occur together. VARVIMAX™ is a dietary supplement derived from a plant extract. VARVIMAX™ contains high levels of anthocyanins, such as Astaxanthins have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The formulation includes amino acids and flavonoids such as choline L-bitartrate, GABA, L-arginine, black pepper (piperine), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), trans-resveratrol 98% (polygonum cuspidatum extract), which all have anti-inflammatory effects and play a significant role in pain management. Studies have shown that these ingredients have been effective in reducing pain, and inflammation, and improving joint function in patients with arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other inflammatory conditions. The most common side effects reported were gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea and diarrhea. &#x0D; Conclusion: VARVIMAX™, a dietary supplement derived from a plant extract Ephedra, shows promise as a safe and effective treatment for chronic pain in arthritis and fibromyalgia. It is composed of several anthocyanins, amino acids, and flavonoids that impart it its characteristic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This results in reducing pain and inflammation, and improving joint function. Further research is needed to establish its long-term safety and efficacy in a wider range of inflammatory conditions.

Treatment of a Distal Humerus Fracture using an Elbow Hemiarthroplasty

Elbow hemiarthroplasty (EHA) is a highly effective procedure for treating various elbow joint disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and fractures involving the articular surface of the distal humerus. It involves replacing the entire distal humerus with a prosthesis and reattaching the supporting soft tissues. The EHA provides significant pain relief, improves joint function, and increases patient satisfaction, with minimal complications that can be easily managed. This case study demonstrates the value of EHA as a viable treatment option for distal humerus fractures in older adults with moderate activity levels, as a superior alternative to osteosynthesis.

Comparison of the clinical effects for different positions of the weight-bearing axis after high tibial osteotomy

PurposeTo analyze the clinical effects of different positions of the weight-bearing axis (WBA) after high tibial osteotomy (HTO).MethodsThe clinical data of 90 patients who underwent HTO in the Department of Orthopedics at our hospital from June 2018 to June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into groups A and B (n = 45 per group) according to different post-HTO WBA positions of the affected side. WBAs in both groups were at 50–60% and 62–66% of the tibial plateau, from inside to outside, respectively. American Hospital for Special Surgery Knee Score (HSS), visual analog scale (VAS) score, femorotibial angle (FTA), and medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) were recorded and analyzed.ResultsAll patients were followed up with for 12 months. HSS scores increased gradually and VAS scores decreased gradually in both groups preoperatively, and at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively (P < 0.05). Compared to group A, group B had better HHS scores at 6 months and 1 year postoperatively (P < 0.05). There was no significant between-group difference in VAS scores at all aforementioned timepoints (P > 0.05). Postoperative MPTA and FTA were 89.56° ± 2.18° and 177.11° ± 2.63° in group A, and 89.07° ± 1.98° and 177.07° ± 2.36° in group B, respectively, with no significant between-group difference (P > 0.05).ConclusionPatients with post-HTO WBA ranges of 50–60% and 62–66% achieved knee joint function improvement and pain relief. Half a year later, those with a WBA range of 62–66% had better knee joint function scores. However, a comparison of long-term effects warrants further investigation.

Investigating the Effect of Tranexamic Acid on Reducing Bleeding in Knee Arthroplasty and Improving Joint Function: A systematic review

Investigating the Effect of Tranexamic Acid on Reducing Bleeding in Knee Arthroplasty and Improving Joint Function: A systematic review