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JRPMS 2024

Original Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 1, March 2024, p.1-6
Gender differences in musculoskeletal discomfort due to computer use among university students in the United States
Priyadarshini Pattath
Keywords: Computer use, Gender, Musculoskeletal disorders, Students
Abstract
Objective: Women report higher incidence of musculoskeletal discomfort due to computer use. This study examines the gender differences in the association of musculoskeletal discomfort and computing characteristics among university students. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was used with a sample size of 338 students from a public university. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess associations of musculoskeletal discomfort and participant characteristics. Results: 61% of students reported having MSD. Male students between the age group of 26-35 years (AOR=5.086 [CI=1.05-24.48]) and those who only sometimes took breaks (AOR=3.835 [CI=1.25-11.71]) were more likely to report MSDs. Female students who used computer for more than 8 hours a day (AOR=6.199 [CI=2.38-16.11]), those who spent between 5-8 hours (AOR=2.174 [CI=1.04-4.51]), and those who assumed awkward postures (AOR =5.588 [CI= 1.24-25.1]) were more likely to report MSDs after adjustment. Conclusion: It is important to emphasize the benefits of ergonomics for males in the adult age group. Regardless of age, for female students' adequate breaks from using the computer, and avoiding awkward postures are necessary to prevent and mitigate the risk factors of musculoskeletal discomfort. The different risks factors for male and female students have important implications for prevention of musculoskeletal disorders.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 1, March 2024, p.7-10
Bone Marrow Edema and Zoledronic Acid - A Narrative Review
Christiana Zidrou, Efstathios Chronopoulos
Keywords: Ankle, Bone marrow edema, Hip, Knee, Zoledronic acid
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate and evaluate the effectiveness of a single dose of zoledronic acid in the treatment of bone marrow edema syndrome (BMES) in all lower extremity locations (hip, knee, foot, and ankle). A literature search was conducted on electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar) to identify clinical studies on the therapeutic use of zoledronic acid for patients with bone marrow edema syndrome. Until today, very few studies have been conducted using zoledronic acid in patients with bone marrow edema syndrome. The majority of them are retrospective. This narrative review suggests the effectiveness of a single dose of intravenously administered zoledronic acid in patients with bone marrow edema syndrome in three anatomical locations: the hip, knee, and foot/ankle. Zoledronic acid, often used in combination with partial-weight bearing, appears to reduce pain intensity, improve range of motion, and decrease lesion size in MRI imaging findings. The administration of a single dose of intravenous zoledronic acid is a reasonable therapeutic option for patients with bone marrow edema (BMES). It accelerates the time to pain resolution and simultaneously improves imaging findings in MRI. Further prospective clinical studies with a larger number of patients and longer follow-up periods are needed.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 1, March 2024, p.11-18
Modern Antiretroviral Therapy and Fracture Risk
Nikolaos Inglezos
Keywords: Antiretroviral therapy, Bone mineral density, Fracture risk, HIV, Osteoporosis
Abstract
Excessive bone loss has been noticed in HIV patients, under no antiretroviral therapy, suggesting that HIV is an independent factor for osteoporosis. However, it is still controversial if bone mineral density reduction and increased fracture risk is related to HIV itself or to antiretroviral therapy, with a contribution from both likely. The purpose of this study is to review the association of modern antiretroviral drugs with fracture risk. A simple literature review was performed in the PubMed database. The final search identified 21 studies (6 prospective randomized studies, 4 prospective cohort studies, 3 cross-sectional studies, 4 case–control studies, and 4 retrospective studies). It appears that the pathogenesis of osteoporotic fractures in AIDS patients is multifactorial. The majority of studies show mixed results regarding the effect of most antiretroviral drugs. Further high-quality research is needed to fully elucidate the role of antiretroviral drugs in the pathogenesis of bone loss, osteoporosis, and osteoporotic fractures in HIV-infected patients.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 1, March 2024, p.19-23
School Screening for Idiopathic Scoliosis
Vasiliki P. Myriouni, Christos P. Zafeiris
Keywords: Cost-effectiveness, Effectiveness, Idiopathic scoliosis, School screening
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to examine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of school screening for idiopathic scoliosis. To achieve this goal, a review of the international literature was conducted. Through the analysis of the findings, it can be concluded that school screening is an effective and cost-effective process, especially if some modifications with more specific targeting are incorporated, which can enhance the cost effectiveness even further.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 1, March 2024, p.24-34
Bone Disease in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases Among Young Adults: A Comprehensive Review
Athanasia Tatsi, Symeon Tournis
Keywords: Avascular necrosis, Autoimmune rheumatic diseases, Osteoporosis, Glucocorticoids
Abstract
Autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) encompass a diverse array of conditions with varied clinical manifestations affecting multiple body systems. Among young patients with ARD, the most common bone disorders are avascular necrosis (AVN) and osteoporosis. ARDs and glucocorticoid use pose major risk factors for AVN and osteoporosis in this population. Unexplained hip pain should raise suspicion of AVN, warranting further investigation, such as MRI. While traditionally associated with older individuals, osteoporosis should not be overlooked in young adults with ARDs. Assessing fracture risk and implementing appropriate management strategies are crucial. Early recognition and tailored treatment are essential for preserving quality of life. ARDs and glucocorticoid use increase osteoporosis risk. Premenopausal women with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis may experience a 17.1% decrease in femoral neck BMD. Similarly, patients with spondyloarthritis exhibit high osteoporosis rates. Diagnosing and managing osteoporosis in young adults remain challenging, highlighting the importance of fracture prevention. Guidelines offer recommendations for preventing, monitoring, and treating glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. Considering prevention, early recognition, and appropriate treatment are vital during the clinical evaluation of young adults. Addressing these aspects improves outcomes and mitigates skeletal comorbidity in ARDs.
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Original Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 2, June 2024, p.35-41
Psychological Profile in Musculoskeletal Disorders and Its Relationship with Socio-Demographics, Perceived Social Support and Quality of Life in A Tertiary Care Hospital in India – A Cross-Sectional Study
Raveesh Bevinahalli Nanjegowda, Suhas Bhargav Achatapalli Venkata Rao, Manjunatha Nagaraja, Ravindra Neelakanthappa Munoli
Keywords: Common mental disorders, Musculoskeletal disorders, Perceived social support, Psychological profile, Quality of life
Abstract
Objectives: This study explores the psychological aspects of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in India, examining personality traits, social support, and sociodemographic factors. It also investigates the relationship between multi-site MSDs, common mental disorders, perceived social support, and quality of life. Methods: Conducted at an Indian tertiary care hospital, 205 participants (≥18 years) with MSDs associated with chronic distress in the form of pain, underwent personality assessment using the Big Five model. Multi-site MSDs were identified via the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and logistic regression analyzed Common Mental Disorder Questionnaire (CMDQ), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and Stark Quality of Life (QoL). Results: Associations were found between MSDs and CMDQ subscales, particularly anxiety, somatoform, and depressive disorders. Multi-site MSDs were prevalent in 74.6% of participants, with neuroticism as the predominant personality trait. Participants reported low to moderate perceived social support levels, impacting their quality of life. Conclusions: This research underscores addressing psychological and social factors in MSDs associated with chronic pain. Multi-site MSDs significantly affect mental health and quality of life, emphasizing the need for timely screening and psychiatric intervention in effective management.
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Original Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 2, June 2024, p.42-49
Primary Repair of Acute Tendo Achilles Tear by Suture Anchor - The Treatment of Choice for Early Return to Daily Activities: An Evaluation of Clinical and Functional Outcome
Suman Sourav Mishra, Arijit Das, Ayon Das, Nikhilesh Das
Keywords: Acute rupture, AOFAS score, Suture anchor, Tendo achilles, Tendon injuries
Abstract
Objectives: Acute rupture of achilles tendon is a commonly occurring injury affecting mostly the young individuals involved in sports activities. Operative management is most often employed to treat such injuries. This study was aimed to evaluate the functional outcome in patients with acute tendo achilles tear managed by open repair using a suture anchor. Methods: This was a prospective study conducted between September 2018 to August 2020 on patients who underwent suture anchor repair for acute tendo achilles tear. All patients were followed up for at least 9 months. The patients were clinically evaluated and AOFAS score was used to assess their functional outcome. Results: In a total of 38 patients, 28 (73.7%) patients showed Excellent and 7 (18.4%) patients had Good results whereas 1 (2.6%) had Fair and 2 (5.3%) patients demonstrated Poor surgical result at the final follow-up. 89.5% patients did not have any complication. The average AOFAS score was 90.97 ± 10.24. Conclusion: Operative treatment with suture anchor in acute tendo achilles tear has a high success rate, quick recovery after surgery, lower rate of complications, faster return to daily activities, excellent aesthetic and comparable functional results and is also a safe, simple and accepted surgical technique.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 2, June 2024, p.50-59
Osteoporotic Pelvic Ring Fractures
Georgios Gatos, Christos Zafeiris, Efstathios Chronopoulos, Angelos Trellopoulos, Emmanouil Brilakis, Emmanouil Antonogiannakis
Keywords: Fracture, Lesion, Osteoporosis, Pelvic ring, Sacrum
Abstract
The pelvic ring is a complicated anatomical structure which consists of the sacral bone, the iliac, ischial and pubic compartments and the pubic symphysis. In the elderly, osteoporotic fractures of the pelvic ring are often caused by low energy trauma. They are very rarely accompanied by neurological, vascular or endopelvic organ injuries. There has been a rise in the incidence of such trauma due to the increase of life expectancy, population aging and improvement of diagnostic and evaluation techniques. Pelvic ring fractures are often missed or under evaluated, resulting in remaining pain and great disability. Thorough assessment of the clinical presentation and medical history of the patient along with the needed imaging tests are vital for choosing the suitable therapeutic approach. Pelvic ring fractures are classified according to many systems. The most popular one is Denis et al classification, which is slowly replaced by the Young-Burgess classification, based on the applied force's direction. FFP classification aids in the diagnosis and leads the treatment algorithm. The AO/OTA cooperative categorization can help improve common understanding of such pathologies. Treatment sequence can be conservative or surgical and aims to pain management and rapid mobilization. However, it must always include the suitable osteoporotic therapy.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 2, June 2024, p.60-70
Role of COL5A1 Gene Polymorphism (rs12722) in Lower Limb Musculoskeletal Injuries Among Adults - A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Eleftheria Gkritzali, Elizabeth Akam, Sarabjit Mastana
Keywords: Col5A1 Gene, Meta-analysis, rs12722 Polymorphism, Musculoskeletal Injuries, Systematic review
Abstract
Objective: Musculoskeletal injuries mainly occur in tendons and ligaments and their aetiology is tightly connected with genetic and environmental influences. This review and meta-analysis identifies and evaluates the potential association of the COL5A1 rs12722 polymorphism with lower limb musculoskeletal injuries in adults (18-60 years). Methods: Literature database searching (SCOPUS, Web of Science and PubMed) and screening provided nine studies for analysis. Data was extracted and interpreted by main injury types focusing on the genotype distribution (CC, CT, TT) of the rs12722 polymorphism. Meta-analysis was carried out using different modes of inheritance and injury sub-groups. Results: Many individual studies indicated no significant difference between cases and controls (p>0.05), but pooled data showed significant association of COL5A1 rs12722 polymorphism with lower limb musculoskeletal risk of injury (p=0.009). The meta-analysis showed a significant effect for the total sample for the recessive model of inheritance (OR =1.28 (CI 1.03-1.57, p=0.021) and ACLI (OR=1.31 (CI 1.03-1.67, p=0.026). Conclusions: The systematic review and meta-analyses confirm that T allele carriers (TT, CT) were more susceptible to injury, while the C allele is protective, decreasing the risk of injury.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 2, June 2024, p.71-76
Reconstruction of Defects of the Cranial Vault
Andriana Nikolopoulou, Ismene Dontas, Efstathios Chronopoulos, Christos Zafeiris
Keywords: Allograft, Xenograft, Alloplastic biomaterials, Autograft, Cranial vault defects
Abstract
Defects of the cranial vault can be congenital or acquired. Congenital defects include syndromic and nonsyndromic. Acquired defects include defects from tumor, infection and trauma, which can cause loss of the calvarium due to direct trauma or by craniectomy procedure. The diagnostic approach for such cases includes physical examination and imaging techniques (such as plain radiographs, CT, MRI, and ultrasound). The method of reconstruction of cranial defects is tailor made to each individual patient. The method as well as the graft material is based on the patient's overall disease state, long-term prognosis, and medical comorbidities. Reconstruction of these cranial defects has been attempted with the use of different materials which include autografts, allografts, xenografts and alloplastic materials. The reconstruction of cranial defects requires a tailored approach based on the patient's overall disease state, long-term prognosis, and medical comorbidities. Autogenous grafts offer advantages such as integration, vascularity, and lower risk of infection, but have drawbacks including resorption. Allografts, xenografts and alloplastic biomaterials provide alternative options for reconstruction, but there is no ideal material that fulfils all characteristics. The choice of graft material should consider factors such as age, sex, size, and site of the defect.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 3, September 2024, p.77-83
A Review on Ergonomic Studies for Different Industrial Setups
Kapil Gupta
Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, Occupational health, RULA, REBA
Abstract
Awkward postures, improper rests, and repetitive forceful exertion are some key factors that may lead to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) such as fatigue, muscle imbalance, spinal dysfunction, and body pain etc. These are severe issues among the industrial workers that cause financial loss to the industry. As a scientific discipline, Ergonomics focuses on understanding the interactions between humans and their environment. Its goal is to enhance well-being, efficiency, and performance by designing products, systems, and work environments that align with human physical, cognitive, and psychological capabilities. It can significantly contribute to reduce work-related injuries, pain, and WMSD and enhance the safety and productivity. This paper introduces ergonomics and its importance, followed by ergonomic strategy implementation for improvement in working conditions of the workers, labours, and staff; and provides a review of some important past work conducted by various researchers on improving industry and/or workplace procedures and activities to obtain safety, productivity, and better health prospects. It aims to facilitate the scholars by providing knowledge on ergonomics and encourage them to establish the field further.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 3, September 2024, p.84-90
Proprioception and Aging
Ioannis P. Visvardis, Christos P. Zafeiris
Keywords: Assessment, Functional evaluation, Older adults, Proprioception, Third age
Abstract
Maintaining balance and postural control is of central importance for the older adults, since it is associated with falls and subsequent health problems. The onset of mobility impairments is usually assessed by checking for limitations in daily activities, underlying to importance of further evaluation. Calculation of proprioception is based on tests assessing the level of somatosensory functionality, by using balance and gait tests and through the single limb postural stability test. Functional evaluation is carried out by several means, such as the Get up and Go or Functional Reach tests, the Tinetti Balance and Mobility Scale, the Berg Functional Scale, the Sensory Organization Test and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale. Many interventions lead to positive effects, such as physical exercise, balance training, empowerment or strength training, combined balance and strengthening training, general exercises, tai chi. These interventions improve balance, enhance balance mechanisms of the older adults, lead to improved physical health and better mental health. Thus, it is of most importance for health professionals to use evaluations for proprioception in the older adults and to apply subsequent interventions.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 3, September 2024, p.91-97
Perioperative and Postoperative Pain Management in Patients Undergoing the Method of Fast-Track Total Knee Arthroplasty
Iliana Kalogeropoulou
Keywords: Fast-track total knee arthroplasty, Perioperative pain management, Postoperative pain management, Rehabilitation
Abstract
Fast-track total knee arthroplasty (FT-TKA) is a procedure that depends on early rehabilitation and mobilization, reducing hospital stay. It improves clinical and functional outcomes and demands a new analgesic program for early patient recovery and mobilization. The success of this procedure depends on proper surgical planning, education, and advising of patients. The patient is educated and becomes more responsible during recovery because of the perioperative procedure. The purpose of this article is to present recommendations for the perioperative and postoperative analgesia in Fast-Track total knee arthroplasty in order to create an analgesic protocol for the patient and improve his recovery.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 3, September 2024, p.98-100
Seasonal Variation of Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures
Konstantinos Lathyris, Christos Zafeiris
Keywords: Fragility fractures, Osteoporosis, Seasonal variation, Vertebral fractures
Abstract
Fragility fracture is a clinical feature of osteoporosis and mainly occurs in the elderly. The most common sites of low trauma fractures are spine, hip, wrist, humerus and pelvis. Vertebral fractures are considered to be the most common ones and are related to acute and chronic pain, impairing the quality of patient’s life. Seasonal variation of osteoporotic fractures is a subject of interest in multiple articles. Hip fractures seem to be more frequent in winter and this is closely related to variation in the level of serum vitamin-D as well as sarcopenia. On the other hand, there are less articles and surveys regarding vertebral fractures and their seasonal variation. The main cause is the difficulty in diagnosis, considering that a big amount of vertebral fractures are underdiagnosed. The majority of the articles referring to the seasonal variation of vertebral fractures indicate no significant quantitative difference throughout the months of the year. Further investigation should be conducted in the future and a precise timeline of patients’ symptoms would be of vital importance in such cases.
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Review Article JRPMS, Vol 8, No 3, September 2024, p.101-108
Teriparatide and Atrophic Nonunion
Konstantinos Varvarousis, Christos P. Zafeiris
Keywords: Atrophic nonunion, Bone Regeneration, Fracture Healing, Parathyroid Hormone, Teriparatide
Abstract
Fracture healing is a complex biological process orchestrated by a delicate interplay of cellular and molecular mechanisms. While the majority of fractures heal spontaneously with appropriate treatment, challenging cases, such as atrophic nonunion, may require adjunctive therapies to achieve successful bone regeneration. In recent years, teriparatide has gained attention as a promising bone-forming agent with the potential to enhance fracture healing and improve clinical outcomes. Preclinical studies using animal models of bone injury have provided evidence supporting the efficacy of teriparatide in promoting fracture healing and resolving nonunion. Histological and radiological findings show that teriparatide enhances callus formation, accelerates bone remodeling, improves biomechanical properties, and reduces the incidence of healing complications. These preclinical results highlight the potential of teriparatide as a therapeutic agent for managing atrophic nonunion in clinical practice. However, further research is necessary to address the limitations of current studies and to establish evidence-based guidelines for the use of teriparatide in nonunion management.
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