Stair-climbing Test Research Articles

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Improves Stair Climbing Capacity in People with Knee Osteoarthritis

This study aimed to examine the effect of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on stair climbing capacity in individuals with pre-radiographic to mild knee osteoarthritis (OA). This is a secondary analysis of data from a single, participant-blinded, randomized controlled trial with a pre-post design. Participants with pre-radiographic to mild knee OA (mean age, 59.1 years; 72.9% women) were randomly assigned into two groups, a TENS (n = 30) and a sham-TENS groups (n = 29). TENS or sham-TENS treatments were applied to all participants by using the prototype TENS device with pre-specified parameters. The primary outcome measures included valid and reliable functional measures for stair climbing (stair-climb test [SCT]), visual analog scale for knee pain during the SCT, and quadriceps muscle strength. TENS improved SCT time by 0.41 s (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.07, 0.75). The time reduction in the transition phase explains the TENS therapeutic effect. Post-hoc correlation analyses revealed a non-significant but positive relationship between the pain relief effect and improved 11-step SCT time in the TENS group but not in the sham-TENS group. These results indicate that the TENS intervention may be an option for reducing the burden of early-stage knee OA.

Does robot-assisted gait training improve mobility, activities of daily living and quality of life in stroke? A single-blinded, randomized controlled trial.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) on mobility, activities of daily living (ADLs), and quality of life (QoL) in stroke rehabilitation. Fifty-one stroke patients randomly assigned to Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3 received conventional training (CT) plus RAGT, CT, and RAGT, respectively. The training duration was for 6weeks. The primary outcome measures were the Barthel Index (BI), Stroke Specific Quality of Life Scale (SS-QOL), 6-Minute Walk Test (6-MWT), and Stair Climbing Test (SCT). The secondary outcomes were Fugl Meyer Assessment-Lower Extremity (FMA-LE), Comfortable 10-m Walk Test (CWT), Fast 10-m Walk Test (FWT), and Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE). The mean change in all the primary [BI (p = 0.001), 6-MWT (p = 0.001), SS-QOL (p < 0.0001), and SCT (p = 0.004)] and except the FWT (p = 0.354) all the other secondary outcomes [FMA-LE (p = 0.049), CWT (p = 0.025) and RPE (p = 0.023)] improved significantly between the three groups. In the subgroup analysis, BI, 6-MWT, SS-QOL, and SCT improved significantly in Group 1 compared to Group 2 and Group 3 (p < 0.016). However, FMA-LE, CWT, and the RPE significantly improved in Group 1 compared to Group 2 and, also, only CWT improved significantly in Group 1 compared to Group 3 (p = 0.011). In a subgroup analysis of the primary and secondary outcome measures, there were no significant differences in Group 2 compared to Group 3 (p > 0.05). While combined training leads to more improvement in mobility, ADLs, and QoL, CT showed a similar improvement compared to the RAGT in stroke patients.

Intensive, personalized multimodal rehabilitation in patients with primary or revision total knee arthroplasty: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundRecent evidence has shown that many patients suffer from persistent pain and impaired function after primary or revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Post-surgical complications may in addition decrease physical performances and lead to more pain and impacted quality of life.The purpose of the study was to assess the changes in pain intensity and functional capacity among patients with post-surgical complications after TKA three weeks of intensive, personalized multimodal rehabilitation.MethodsA retrospective cohort study consisting of 217 patient of which 166 had primary TKA and 51 had revision TKA was conducted. On average, primary TKA patients and revision TKA patients were 3.7 and 2.7 months post-surgical, respectively. All patients have had post-surgical complications and were referred to an inpatient rehabilitation department, where they received a personalized three-week intensive, multimodal rehabilitation protocol. The rehabilitation consisted of sessions targeting neuromuscular function, postural control, and flexibility, sessions focusing on improving muscle strength and cardiovascular function and sessions with focus on gait retraining. The frequency of training was 2–4 sessions/day. The primary outcome was the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and secondary outcomes were pain intensities measured using numerical rating scale, 6 min. walking test, stair-climbing test and range of motion for knee flexion and extension. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline upon referral and at follow-up before discharge.ResultsAll outcomes, except pain at rest in the revision group, improved significantly. KOOS subscales, improved 8.5 to 14.2 in the primary TKA group (p < 0.001) and 6.9 to 10.8 in the revision group (p < 0.001). For the TKA group, effect sizes were medium-to-large for all KOOS subscales, 6 min. walking test, stair-climbing test, and pain intensity during activity. For the revision group, effect sizes were medium-to-large for KOOS subscales symptoms and activity of daily living, 6 min. walking test, stair-climbing test, and knee flexion.ConclusionPatients with post-surgical complications after primary or revision TKA experienced clinical relevant improvement in self-reported outcomes, pain relief, and improved physical performances after three weeks of personalized multimodal rehabilitation. The results suggest that an intensive, multimodal approach might be useful to obtain clinically relevant improvements.

Using Kinetic Energy with Potential Energy When Determining Power During the Stair Climbing Test

ABSTRACT Stair climbing is an important functional task that indicates independence, and generating power to climb stairs is a vital component of this task. Power during stair climbing is traditionally calculated using potential energy (PE), but it may be important to determine power expended using kinetic energy (KE). Purpose: The current study assessed power output for stair climbing with and without the inclusion of KE. Methods: Sixty participants (21-35 years) climbed a 12-step stairway with a 2-meter acceleration phase before the first step and a 2-meter deceleration phase after the last step. Participants completed 3 trials, and average time was used for calculating energy expended and power. Results: The mean difference between power from PE and total power was 6.16 W (SD = 2.50, t29 = 13.49, p &lt; 0.001) for males and 64.76 W (SD = 2.90, t29 = 8.99, p &lt; 0.001) for females. Agreement between power calculated from PE and total power was 0.99 (95% confidence interval = 0.98-1.0). Conclusion: Power calculated using PE and KE was significantly different from using PE alone, which may be clinically important. When conducting stair-climbing tests, both PE and KE may be necessary for the most accurate assessment of power.

The effect of aerobic exercise training on postmenopausal patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common musculoskeletal problem encountered in the postmenopausal period. This study aimed to determine the impact of aerobic exercise on functional limitation, exercise tolerance, and performance tests in postmenopausal women with knee OA. A total of 50 women (aged between 48-78) with grade 2-3 knee OA according to the Kellgren-Lawrence radiographic scale were enrolled. OA-specific physical performance tests (40m Fast-Paced Walk Test (40mFPWT), 30s Chair Stand Test (30sCST), Stair Climb Test (9-step SCT)), six-minute walk test (6MWT), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were performed. Fifty patients were randomized to either the treatment or control groups. The treatment group received an additional aerobic exercise training along with a combined physiotherapy program for six weeks. The aerobic exercise program was carried out by the same physiotherapist every weekday (five days) for six weeks. The control group only received a combined physiotherapy program for six weeks. The post-treatment comparisons of the two groups yielded similar SCT results (p> 0.05), while VAS scores, the results of all performance tests, WOMAC scores, and the distance covered in 6MWT were significantly higher in the treatment group (p< 0.05). Consequently, this study provides an insight into the efficacy of the aerobic exercise program applied along with a combined physiotherapy program in postmenopausal women with knee OA.

Preoperative physical factors that predict stair-climbing ability at one month after total knee arthroplasty

To identify preoperative physical performance factors that predict stair-climbing ability at 1 month after total knee arthroplasty. Prospective cohort study. University-based rehabilitation centre. Eighty-four patients who underwent a primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty Methods: Before and 1 month post-operation, the patients completed physical performance tests, including a stair-climbing test, a 6-minute walk test, a Timed Up-and-Go test, tests of the isometric flexor and extensor strength of the operated and non-operated knees, and instrumental gait analysis. Disease-specific physical function was measured by the Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index. Correlation analysis showed that postoperative stair-climbing test scores were significantly correlated with preoperative physical performance and function. Linear regression analysis showed that postoperative stair-ascent scores were correlated with preoperative Timed Up-and-Go test scores and peak torque of the extensor of the operated knee. Postoperative stair-descent scores were positively correlated with preoperative stair-descent scores and age. The results show that preoperative balance ability and quadriceps strength in the operated knee could influence postoperative stair-climbing ability at 1 month after total knee arthroplasty. These findings will be useful for developing pre- and post-operative rehabilitation strategies for improving stair-climbing ability in the early stages after total knee arthroplasty.

Effect of Electroacupuncture versus Sham Electroacupuncture in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objective To explore the feasibility of evaluating the effectiveness and safety of electroacupuncture versus sham electroacupuncture for patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Method A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted at a teaching hospital in Beijing. A total of 30 patients with KOA (Kellgren grade II or III) were randomly allocated to an eight-week treatment of either electroacupuncture or sham electroacupuncture. Patients and outcome assessors were blinded to group allocation. The primary outcome was the proportion of responders achieving at least 1.14 seconds decrease in the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) at week eight compared with baseline. The secondary outcomes included the knee range of motion, the knee extensor and flexor muscle strength, Lequesne index, 9-step stair-climb test (9-SCT), and TUG. Results Of 30 patients allocated to two groups, 27 (90%) completed the study. The proportion of responders was 53.3% (8 of 15) for electroacupuncture group and 26.7% (4 of 15) for sham electroacupuncture group by the intention-to-treat analysis (P = 0.264). There was no statistically significant difference in TUG between the two groups at eight weeks (P = 0.856). The compliance rate measured according to patients who conformed to the protocol and had received treatments ≥20 times was 93.3% (28 of 30). The dropout rate was 20% (3 of 15). Adverse effects were not reported in the study. Conclusion Our research demonstrated that further evaluation of the effectiveness of electroacupuncture versus sham electroacupuncture was feasible and safe for patients with KOA. Whether or not the electroacupuncture can improve the physical functions of knee joint, expand the knee range of motion, and increase the extensor and flexor muscle strength more significantly than sham electroacupuncture, future studies can be designed with larger sample size, randomization design and less biases. This trial is registered with NCT03366363.

Changes in Pulmonary Function After 3 Surgical Methods of Pulmonary Nodules Resection by Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery

Objective:The purpose of this study was to evaluate the changes in pulmonary function after wedge resection, segmentectomy, and lobectomy.Methods:The patients were divided into 4 groups: lobectomy group, segmentectomy group, wedge resection group, and mediastinal surgery group. The pulmonary function was evaluated at various time points: 3 days before surgery, 1 month, 6 months, 12 months, and then 24 months after surgery.Results:The analysis results of forced expiratory volume in one second difference and breath-holding tests difference were consistent: Lobectomy group was higher than segmentectomy group, wedge resection group, and mediastinal surgery group at 4 postoperative time points (P < .05); segmentectomy group was higher than the wedge resection group and mediastinal surgery group (P < .05), and there was no statistical difference between the wedge resection group and the mediastinal surgery group (P > .05). Analysis results of tidal volume difference: Lobectomy group was higher than segmentectomy group, wedge resection group, and mediastinal surgery group at 4 postoperative time points (P < .05); segmentectomy group was higher than wedge resection group and mediastinal surgery group at 1 month after surgery (P < .05). Analysis results of the diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide difference: lobectomy group and segmentectomy group were higher than wedge resection group and mediastinal surgery group at 4 postoperative time points (P < .05). Analysis results of the stair-climbing test difference: lobectomy group and segmentectomy group were higher than the wedge resection group and mediastinal surgery group at 4 postoperative time points (P < .05).Conclusion:Segmentectomy was superior to lobectomy in the protection of pulmonary function, while wedge resection was superior to segmentectomy. The recovery process of the pulmonary function was the fastest during the first 6 months after surgery.

Functional Outcomes After Critical Pathway for Inpatient Rehabilitation of Total Knee Arthroplasty.

ObjectiveTo investigate functional outcomes after the application of a critical pathway for inpatient rehabilitation of total knee arthroplasty (TKA).MethodsA total of 184 patients (57 males and 127 females; average age, 71.5±5.9 years) who underwent unilateral or bilateral TKA were included. The critical pathway included early, intensive individualized rehabilitation exercises. Patients completed the following performance-based physical function tests: the stair climbing test (SCT), 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and Timed Up and Go test (TUG) as well as measurement of isometric knee flexor and extensor strength of the operated knee, gait speed, and range of knee flexion and extension. Self-reported physical function and pain were measured using the Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and visual analog scale (VAS), respectively, and self-reported quality of life was measured using the EuroQoL 5 dimension (EQ-5D) questionnaire. These evaluations were performed preoperatively and at 1 month and 3 months postoperatively.ResultsPerformance-based and self-reported physical function and quality of life measures improved nonlinearly over time. Specifically, the 6WMT, TUG, gait speed, WOMAC-pain, WOMAC-function, VAS, and EQ-5D scores showed a significant improvement at 1-month post-TKA, whereas SCT, peak torque of the knee extensors and flexors, and WOMAC-stiffness scores showed gradual, but substantial, improvements over 3 months. There were between-group differences (unilateral and bilateral TKA groups) in the time course of the SCT, 6MWT, TUG, VAS, WOAMC-stiffness, and WOMAC-function results.ConclusionPatients who underwent critical pathway rehabilitation after TKA showed significant improvements in functional measurements during the first 3 months post-surgery.

Comparing the association of widespread pain, multi-joint pain and low back pain with measures of pain sensitization and function in people with knee osteoarthritis.

To compare 1. measures of pain sensitization (PS) in people with widespread pain (WSP), multi-joint pain, low back pain (LBP) and knee osteoarthritis (KOA) only, in people with knee OA and 2. results of self-reported function and physical performance tests amongst these sub groups. Patients with knee OA consulting an orthopaedic surgeon were recruited from three Montreal area hospitals. A body homunculus was used to identify the presence of WSP (Y/N), multi-joint pain using a joint count (≥ 2 joints) and LBP (Y/N). Tests included pressure pain thresholds (PPT), temporal summation (TS), conditioned pain modulation and three physical performance tests. The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) assessed self-reported function. Means were compared with Welch's ANOVA, post hoc tests and multiple regression analysis were performed. Two hundred twenty-one participants were evaluated (mean age: 63.4 ± 9.9 years, females n = 135 (61.1%)). Those with WSP significantly differed from those with LBP on PPT mean - 1.4, 95%CI (- 2.4, - 0.4), TS 10.3 (2.1, 18.5) and the stair climb test (SCT) 5.6 (1.3, 9.9). Those with WSP significantly differed from those with KOA only on TS 9.5 (1.0, 18.1), SCT 6.3 (2.0, 10.6) and KOOS - 14.2 (- 26.5, - 2.0). In patients with knee OA, those with WSP demonstrated greater degrees of PS compared with those with knee OA only, LBP and multi-joint pain. They also demonstrated a slower SCT compared with those with KOA only and LBP and decreased self-reported function compared with those with KOA only. These results should be confirmed in a longitudinal study.Key Points• In people with knee OA and widespread pain, measures of sensitization, self-reported function and physical performance were poorer compared with those with knee OA and LBP, knee OA and multi-joint pain or knee OA only.• Clinicians can consider these outcomes when planning management for these subgroups planning a comprehensive treatment program for this subgroup.

Robot-Assisted Stair Climbing Training on Postural Control and Sensory Integration Processes in Chronic Post-stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

BackgroundPostural control disturbances are one of the important causes of disability in stroke patients affecting balance and mobility. The impairment of sensory input integration from visual, somatosensory and vestibular systems contributes to postural control disorders in post-stroke patients. Robot-assisted gait training may be considered a valuable tool in improving gait and postural control abnormalities.ObjectiveThe primary aim of the study was to compare the effects of robot-assisted stair climbing training against sensory integration balance training on static and dynamic balance in chronic stroke patients. The secondary aims were to compare the training effects on sensory integration processes and mobility.MethodsThis single-blind, randomized, controlled trial involved 32 chronic stroke outpatients with postural instability. The experimental group (EG, n = 16) received robot-assisted stair climbing training. The control group (n = 16) received sensory integration balance training. Training protocols lasted for 5 weeks (50 min/session, two sessions/week). Before, after, and at 1-month follow-up, a blinded rater evaluated patients using a comprehensive test battery. Primary outcome: Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Secondary outcomes:10-meter walking test, 6-min walking test, Dynamic gait index (DGI), stair climbing test (SCT) up and down, the Time Up and Go, and length of sway and sway area of the Center of Pressure (CoP) assessed using the stabilometric assessment.ResultsThere was a non-significant main effect of group on primary and secondary outcomes. A significant Time × Group interaction was measured on 6-min walking test (p = 0.013) and on posturographic outcomes (p = 0.005). Post hoc within-group analysis showed only in the EG a significant reduction of sway area and the CoP length on compliant surface in the eyes-closed and dome conditions.ConclusionPostural control disorders in patients with chronic stroke may be ameliorated by robot-assisted stair climbing training and sensory integration balance training. The robot-assisted stair climbing training contributed to improving sensorimotor integration processes on compliant surfaces. Clinical trial registration (NCT03566901).

Tourniquet Use Does Not Affect Functional Outcomes or Pain After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Double-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial.

The use of a tourniquet during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is controversial. Pain and return to function are believed, by some, to be influenced by the use of a tourniquet. The hypothesis of this study was that use of a tourniquet would delay postoperative functional recovery and increase pain as compared with no tourniquet use. Two hundred patients were recruited for this prospective, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Patients were randomized to undergo TKA either with a tourniquet (100 patients) or without one (100 patients) and blinded to group allocation. Primary outcome measures were functional assessment testing using the Timed Up & Go (TUG) test and visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores. Secondary outcome measures included the stair-climb test, blood loss, surgical field visualization, and range of motion. Outcome measures were completed preoperatively, in the hospital, and postoperatively at a first and a second follow-up. The minimal detectable change, Student t test, Fisher exact test, and nonasymptotic chi-square analysis with an alpha of p < 0.05 were used to determine significance. The no-tourniquet group had more calculated blood loss (1,148.02 mL compared with 966.64 mL; p < 0.001) and more difficulty with surgical field visualization (p < 0.0001). The tourniquet group had greater knee extension at the first follow-up (-7° compared with -9°; p = 0.044). Tourniquet use during TKA significantly decreases blood loss and does not adversely affect early postoperative outcomes. Tourniquet use during routine TKA is safe and effective, and concerns about deleterious effects on function and pain may not be justified. Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The effect of extension assist orthosis with pneumatic bladders on pain and function for patients with early knee osteoarthritis.

There are few non-invasive treatment options to slow the progression of osteoarthritis (OA). Recently, a novel knee unloader brace with knee extension assist has become commercially available. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the preliminary effectiveness of using a novel unloader brace with extension assist to improve pain and functional outcomes for patients with knee OA. Thirty subjects (17 control group, 13 brace group) completed baseline and 6-week follow up testing with no brace. Patients were randomized into a Brace or No Brace group after baseline testing. Functional tests [timed up and go (TUG), stair climbing test (SCT) and six-minute walk (6MW)], self-reported measures [Knee Outcome Survey (KOS), pain, Patient Specific Functional Scale (PSFS)] and isometric knee extension strength were assessed. Repeated measure ANOVAs were used to identify differences in group and time. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated for both average number of steps in the brace and exercises compliance compared to change in clinical scores for each group. There was a significant interaction effect for "worst pain" (P=0.002), the brace group improved from a 7.3/10 to 4.7/10 at follow-up (P=0.006) while the control group had no change. There was an effect of time for the SCT (P=0.02), "best knee pain" (P=0.050), and knee extension range of motion (ROM) (P=0.041). There were no significant correlations between exercise compliance and change in outcomes, but when the groups were collapsed there was a significant correlation between compliance and change in knee extension ROM (r=0.526; P=0.025). The extension assist pneumatic unloader brace group demonstrated a significant and important reduction in the "worst knee pain". This may indicate that wearing the brace was able to reduce painful flares. Both groups improved over time for the SCT, "best knee pain", and knee extension ROM, which can be attributed to the stretching protocol. This unloader brace is a promising non-invasive treatment option for patients with knee OA when combined with a stretching program.

PROGRESSIVE REHABILITATION AFTER TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY: A PILOT AND FEASIBILITY STUDY

The incidence of total hip arthroplasty (THA) has increased, due in part to younger individuals undergoing the procedure. Surgical techniques and biomaterials have improved, but rehabilitation has not kept pace with the needs of a changing demographic. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a progressive strengthening and functional retraining intervention after THA. Intervention study. Twenty patients participated in the control group (n=10) or experimental group (n=10). The experimental intervention had few supervised sessions in the early phase after THA (weeks 0-12), followed by supervised, progressive, and high-level activity retraining in the later phase (weeks 12-16). Training in the experimental group was tailored to individual patient goals, which included a variety of vocational and recreational activities. The control group participated in usual rehabilitation care as prescribed by their surgeon. Therefore, the duration and content of rehabilitation of the control group therapy was not constrained. Testing included three-dimensional motion analysis of gait and a clinical evaluation prior to surgery and 16 weeks post-surgery. Change scores were calculated for pain, the Timed Up and Go (TUG), the Stair Climb Test (SCT), the Six-minute Walk Test (6MWT), the Thirty Second Chair Rise Test (30-CRT), strength, the Hip Outcome Scale (HOS), the Hip Dysfunction and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (HOOS Jr), ground reaction force during stance, hip abduction moment, sit to stand ground reaction force, and symmetry between limbs during stance and sit to stand and compared between groups. Patient satisfaction and number of rehabilitation visits were also compared. Safety and feasibility were assessed using descriptive analysis of the number adverse events. One patient dropped from the control group prior to rehabilitation. The intervention group had a significantly greater improvement for the 6MWT than the control group (p=0.011), functional questionnaires (p=0.034), hip abduction strength on the non-surgical side (p=0.01) and greater satisfaction (96 vs 84 out of 100; p=0.03) at the conclusion of the intervention. The intervention group demonstrated a significantly greater improvement in force symmetry during sit-to-stand (p=0.041) as compared to the control group. There were no other significant differences in change scores for functional measures or discrete biomechanical metrics. This physical therapy protocol, which focused on reducing supervised visits early after THA and retraining higher level activities later in the course of recovery, had a positive effect on biomechanics and functional outcomes without compromising safety. The effect of the experimental intervention was most appreciable for the 6MWT, non-surgical hip strength, satisfaction, and movement symmetry. 2B.

Stair climbing ability in patients with early knee osteoarthritis: Defining the clinical hallmarks of early disease

BackgroundA growing clinical interest has been shown towards identifying knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients at earlier stages. The early detection of knee OA may allow for more effective interventions. Research questionThe aim of this study was to determine the discriminative ability of a stair-climb test (SCT) in identifying patients with early knee OA, and to determine if descending stair time during the SCT is better than ascending stair time for the identification of these patients. MethodsThis study was a secondary, cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from a randomized controlled trial. Adults with moderate to severe knee pain were enrolled (n = 57; mean age 58.9 years; 71.9% women). Each participant performed an 11-step SCT (11-SCT) while wearing shoes with a pressure sensor insole. A receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to examine the discriminative power of 11-SCT for identifying early knee OA (Kellgren and Lawrence grade 1). The discriminative power was also compared between the ascending and descending 11-SCT time as evaluated by the pressure sensor. ResultsThe 11-SCT time in patients with early knee OA was 0.55 s longer than that in those with symptomatic non-radiographic OA. A one-second increase in the 11-SCT time was significantly associated with 1.9-fold increased odds of early knee OA being present. The 11-SCT value with the best balance of sensitivity and specificity for identifying early knee OA was 8.33 s (area under the curve: 0.711). The descending time was not significantly better than the ascending time for identifying early knee OA. SignificanceThis study determined the time values of an 11-SCT that may be useful for identifying early knee OA patients. These preliminary findings may serve as the foundation for future studies investigating the clinical hallmarks associated with early knee OA.

Desaturation during the stair-climbing test for patients who will undergo pulmonary resection: an indicator of postoperative complications.

It is widely accepted that exercise tolerance tests are applicable in perioperative risk assessment for patients who undergo pulmonary resection; however, the relevance of desaturation during the test is unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the occurrence of desaturation during a stair-climbing test can be a predictor of postoperative complications among patients who will undergo pulmonary resection and are considered "normal risk" according to published guidelines. Desaturation was defined as a depression of more than 4% points on a pulse oximeter during stair climbing. Among 186 consecutive patients who underwent pulmonary resection, 162 patients who could climb to the 6th floor were selected for the study (excluding 21 patients who could not stair-climb and 3 patients who could not climb from the first floor to the sixth floor). The relationship of desaturation with postoperative complication was investigated using parameters of cardio-pulmonary status associated with additional foci of oxygen supply duration, intensive care unit stay duration, and hospital stay duration. The occurrence ratio of postoperative complications > grade 3 (Clavien-Dindo classification) was 0.75% (1/133) among patients without desaturation and 17.2% (5/29) in patients with desaturation (difference: p = 0.0002). In addition, DS was an indicator of prolonged oxygen supply duration, intensive care unit stay duration, and hospital stay duration. The occurrence of desaturation during a stair-climbing test for patients who will undergo pulmonary resection can be a predictor of postoperative complications among patients who are classified as having normal risk.

Multidisciplinary Integrated Metabolic Rehabilitation in Elderly Obese Patients: Effects on Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Fatigue and Muscle Performance.

Background: Obesity is a widespread problem in the elderly, being associated with severe comorbidities negatively influencing life expectancy. Integrated multidisciplinary metabolic rehabilitation aimed to reduce body weight (BW) and fatigue, increase physical autonomy and introduce healthy life style changes has been proposed as a useful intervention to improve the general health status and quality of life of the obese geriatric population. Methods: Six hundred-eighty four severely obese subjects (F/M = 592/92; age range: 61–83 years; mean body mass index, BMI ± SD: 42.6 ± 5.6 kg/m2) were admitted to take part in a three-week in-hospital BW reduction program (BWRP), entailing energy restricted diet, psychological counselling, physical rehabilitation and nutritional education. Biochemical parameters, cardiovascular risk factors (throughout the Coronary Heart Disease Risk, CHD-R), fatigue (throughout the Fatigue Severity Scale, FSS) and lower limb muscle performance (throughout the Stair Climbing Test, SCT) were evaluated before and at the end of the BWRP. Results: A 4% BW reduction was achieved at the end of the BWRP. This finding was associated with a significant improvement of the metabolic homeostasis (i.e., decrease in total cholesterol and glucose) and a reduction of systolic blood pressure in both females and males, thus resulting in a reduction of CHD-R in the male group. Total FSS score and SCT time decreased in female and male obese patients. The effects of BWPR were comparable among all age-related subgroups (>60, 60–69 and >70 years), apart from ΔCHD-R, which was higher in male subgroups. Finally, age was negatively correlated with ΔBMI and ΔFSS. Conclusions: Though only a relatively limited number of outcomes were investigated, the present study shows that a 4% BW reduction in severely elderly obese patients is associated with positive multisystemic effects, particularly, muscle-skeletal and cardiometabolic benefits, which can favorably influence their general well-being and improve the autonomy level in performing more common daily activities. The maintenance of a healthy life style, including controlled food intake and regular physical activity, after a BWRP is obviously recommended in all elderly obese patients to further improve their clinical condition.

Comorbidities in Patients With End-Stage Knee OA: Prevalence and Effect on Physical Function

ObjectiveTo investigate the prevalence of comorbidities and their effect on physical function, quality of life (QOL), and pain, in patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis (OA). DesignA cross-sectional study. SettingA rehabilitation facility at university hospital. ParticipantsPatients (N=577; 503 women and 74 men) diagnosed with end-stage knee OA between October 2013 and June 2018. InterventionNot applicable. Main Outcome MeasuresComorbidities were as follows: osteoporosis, presarcopenia, degenerative spine disease, diabetes, and hypertension. All patients completed the following performance-based physical function tests: stair-climbing test (SCT), 6-minute walk test (6MWT), timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and gait analysis. Self-reported physical function and pain were measured using Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and a visual analog scale (VAS), respectively, and self-reported QOL was measured using EuroQoL 5 dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire. ResultsUnivariate analyses revealed that patients with osteoporosis had significantly higher scores in SCT ascent, SCT descent, TUG, WOMAC pain tests, and lower scores in 6MWT, gait speed, and cadence tests than those without osteoporosis. Patients with presarcopenia recorded higher scores in SCT ascent, TUG, EQ-5D, and lower scores in 6MWT and gait speed tests than those without presarcopenia. Patients with degenerative spine disease showed higher scores in WOMAC pain and lower scores in gait speeds than those without degenerative spine disease. Patients with diabetes showed higher scores in SCT ascent than those without diabetes, and patients with hypertension showed lower scores in 6MWT than those without hypertension. After adjusting age, sex, and body mass index, SCT descent retained significant association with osteoporosis, SCT ascent showed independent association with presarcopenia and diabetes, and WOMAC pain revealed significant association with degenerative spine disease. ConclusionThe results confirm associations between comorbidities, performance-based and self-reported physical functions, and QOL in patients with end-stage knee OA.

Identification of T-cell subsets associated with muscle strength in people with cancer: A pilot study

Abstract Background Immune deficiency and muscle wasting are both associated with poor prognosis in people with cancer. Survival and quality of life can be improved by attenuating either the immune response or muscle mass, suggesting a relationship between them. Previous data show that mice injected with precursor CD4 T cells maintain muscle mass by restoring immune homeostasis. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that robust anti-cancer T cell immunity leads to improved muscle health. As a first step, this study aims to determine if circulating T cell subsets correlate with muscle strength in people with cancer. Methods The frequency(freq) of T cell subsets was quantified in 11 men with gastrointestinal cancer, and 9 men without cancer, using flow cytometry. Total PBMC protein and gene expression was analyzed using qPCR and Western blots. Clinical measures were assessed using: DEXA scan (body composition); Hand-grip (HGS) test and Knee extension test (Muscle Strength); Stair Climb test (Performance) and Karnofsky and ECOG scales (functional impairment). Data was analyzed using Spearman’s correlation and ANOVA. Results Our data show significant correlations between i) higher freq of CD8 naïve and EM T cells, and lower freq of CD8 CM T cells with stronger HGS, ii) lower freq of Tregs with greater lean mass index, iii) lower freq of CD8 cells expressing CD95 with greater Stair Climb Power, iv) higher freq of CD197+CD45RA+ T cells and greater knee extension strength, and iv) higher expression of CD4 in whole blood with greater functional impairment in people with cancer. Conclusions We have identified significant correlations between levels of T cell populations and muscle strength, performance, and body composition in people with cancer.

The Effect of Shock Wave Therapy as a New Modality for Treatment of Primary Knee Osteoarthritis

Background: osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a chronic disease characterized by slow degradation of cartilage, pain, and increasing disability. Objective: to study the effect of shock wave therapy in treatment of primary knee osteoarthritis. Patients and Methods: thirty patients with primary knee osteoarthritis were classified equally into 2 groups according to the line of treatment; Group I received extra-corporeal shock wave therapy and Group II received continuous ultrasonic waves. Patients were evaluated for pain using visual analogue scale, active range of motion, and physical and functional assessment. Bilateral anteroposterior weight bearing radiographs were done for all patients before treatment and degree of osteoarthritis was assessed by Kallgren and Lawrence Radiographic criteria. Results: there was significant improvement in group I more than group II (as regard to pain assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS) after treatment (p=0.039) and in follow up (p <0.001). There was significant improvement in morning stiffness in both groups with insignificant difference between both them. Regarding active range of motion (ROM), there was significant improvement in flexion in both groups with significant difference between both groups before and after treatment (p =0.001) and in follow up (p <0.001). Regarding chair stand test, there was significant improvement in both groups with in significant difference between them. Regarding stair climb test (SCT), there was significant improvement in both groups with insignificant difference between them. Conclusions: shock wave had an effect in treatment of primary knee OA as a new modality for improving clinical and functional performance.