The addition of blood flow restriction to resistance exercise in individuals with knee pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundBlood flow restriction (BFR) is an effective clinical intervention used to increase strength in healthy individuals. However, its effects on pain and function in individuals with knee pain are unknown.ObjectiveTo determine the effectiveness of adding BFR to resistance exercise for pain relief and improvement of function in patients with knee pain.MethodsSystematic review with meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Medline, Central, Embase, PEDro, Lilacs, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases were searched from inception to May 2019. Randomized clinical trials that compared resistance exercise with or without BFR to treat knee pain and function in individuals older than 18 years of age with knee pain were included.ResultsEight randomized clinical trials met the eligibility criteria and for the quantitative synthesis, five studies were included. The pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) estimate showed that resistance exercises with BFR was not more effective than resistance exercises for reducing pain (SMD: −0.37 cm, 95% CI = −0.93, 0.19) and improving knee function (SMD = −0.23 points, 95% CI = −0.71, 0.26) in patients with knee pain.ConclusionIn the short term, there is low quality of evidence that resistance exercise with BFR does not provide significant differences in pain relief and knee function compared to resistance exercises in patients with knee pain.PROSPERO registration number: CRD42018102839.     

Effects of Pilates training VS. Suspension training on quality of life in women with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial

IntroductionOsteoarthritis is the most common synovial joint disease and is characterized by progressive destruction of the articular cartilage. This study aimed to compare the effect of Pilates and suspension training in patients with knee Osteoarthritis.MethodsThe participants in this randomized trial study were patients with knee Osteoarthritis. In this study, 30 females (61.40 ± 4.85 years) were divided into three groups of suspension training, Pilates, and control group. Participants were randomly assigned to 8-week (3x/week, 1 h/session) Pilates and suspension training program groups. The static and dynamic balance, range of motion, and knee function were respectively measured by The Stork stand balance test, Y balance test, Goniometers, and The WOMAC performance disability questionnaire. To analyze the findings, a dependent sample t-test, covariance test, and Bonferroni's post hoc test were used (P ≤ 0.05).ResultsDynamic and static balance in the suspension training and Pilates training caused a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05) compared to the control group. Also, the range of motion and motor performance in the suspension training and Pilates training showed a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.05) compared to the control group. The suspension training compared to the Pilates training was more effective on dynamic and static balance (P ≤ 0.05). Also, the suspension training compared to the Pilates training had more effect on Range of motion and Motor performance (P ≤ 0.05).ConclusionIt seems that Pilates and suspension training can be used in medical centers as a complementary rehabilitation method among female patients with knee Osteoarthritis to improve the dynamic and static balance, range of motion, and performance.     

Effects of Baduanjin exercise for knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectivesBaduanjin is a Chinese form of low-intensity aerobic exercise that consists of eight movements. It is one of the most common forms of Chinese Qigong exercise, which originated during the Song dynasty and has a history of more than 1000 years. The aim of this research was to assess the efficacy of Baduanjin exercise for knee osteoarthritis (KOA).MethodsA literature search was conducted of 10 databases (Web of Science, AMED, Scopus, CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, KoreaMed Synapse, Oriental Medicine Advanced Searching Integrated System, Chinese Wan Fang and China National Knowledge Infrastructure) from their inception to June 2019. We included eligible randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in which Baduanjin was employed either alone or as an adjuvant treatment for baseline interventions in patients with KOA. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and response rate were used as important outcomes in this research. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. Two reviewers independently selected studies, extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Meta-analysis was applied to quantitative data.ResultsSeven RCTs totalling 424 participants were included. Overall, only three studies (43 %) reported adequate random sequence generation, allocation concealment, blinding of outcome assessment and accounting for incomplete outcome data. The results showed a statistically significant mean difference (MD) between Baduanjin exercise and waiting list control on three domains of WOMAC scores [MD=-4.40 (95 % CI: -7.16, -1.64), p < 0.01 in pain; MD=-1.34 (95 % CI: -1.64, -1.04), p < 0.01 in stiffness; MD=-2.44 (95 % CI: -4.33,-0.55), p < 0.01 in physical function] and the response rate [RR = 1.18 (95 % CI: 1.01, 1.37), p = 0.04]. Moreover, when used alone, Baduanjin exercise demonstrated a statistically significant improvement on three domains of WOMAC scores [MD=-1.69 (95 % CI: -2.03, -1.35), p < 0.01 in pain; MD=-0.86 (95 % CI: -1.13, -0.58), p < 0.01 in stiffness; MD=-2.23 (95 % CI: -3.65,-0.82), p < 0.01 in physical function] compared to health education. Furthermore, Baduanjin exercise plus NSAID therapies significantly improved total WOMAC score [MD=-10.26 (95 % CI: -13.41, -7.11), p < 0.01] and reduced VAS [MD=-1.65 (95 % CI: -1.83,–1.48), p < 0.01] compared to NSAID therapies alone.ConclusionThe existing weak evidence suggests that Baduanjin exercise may have favourable effects for KOA patients. However, further rigorously designed RCTs are warranted before it can be recommended.     

A systematic review and meta-analysis of lower limb neuromuscular alterations associated with knee osteoarthritis during level walking

Background

Neuromuscular alterations are increasingly reported in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) during level walking. We aimed to determine which neuromuscular alterations are consistent in KOA individuals and how these may be influenced by osteoarthritis severity, varus alignment and/or joint laxity.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched up to July 2012. Cross-sectional observational studies comparing lower-limb neuromuscular activity in individuals with KOA, healthy controls or with different KOA cohorts were included. Two reviewers assessed methodological quality. Effect sizes were used to quantify the magnitude of observed differences. Where studies were homogenous, effect sizes were pooled using a fixed-effects model.

Findings

Fourteen studies examining neuromuscular alterations in indices of co-contraction, muscle amplitude and muscle activity duration were included. Data pooling revealed that moderate KOA individuals exhibit increased co-contraction of lateral knee muscles (ES 0.64 [0.3 to 0.97]) and moderately increased rectus femoris (ES 0.73 [0.23 to 1.22]), vastus lateralis (ES 0.77 [0.27 to 1.27]) and biceps femoris (ES 1.18 [0.67 to 1.7]) mean amplitude. Non-pooled data indicated prolonged activity of these muscles. Increased medial knee neuromuscular activity was prevalent for those exhibiting varus alignment and medial knee joint laxity.InterpretationIndividuals with KOA exhibited increased co-contraction, amplitude and duration of lateral knee muscles regardless of disease severity, limb alignment or medial joint laxity. Individuals with severe disease, varus alignment and medial joint laxity demonstrate up-regulation of medial knee muscles. Future research investigating the efficacy of neuromuscular rehabilitation programs should consider the effect of simultaneous up-regulation of medial and lateral knee muscles on disease progression.     

本体感觉训练治疗膝骨性关节炎的疗效观察

目的:观察本体感觉训练对膝骨性关节炎(KOA)的临床疗效。方法:选取KOA患者102例,随机分为观察组与对照组,每组51例。2组患者均给予常规运动疗法及经皮神经肌肉电刺激治疗,观察组在此基础上进行本体感觉训练。于治疗前、治疗4周后,分别采用角度尺评定关节活动度(ROM);视觉模拟评分法(VAS)进行疼痛评分;BioDex平衡测试系统测量静态跌倒风险指数(SFI)、动态跌倒风险指数(DFI)及姿势稳定极限性(LOS);“起立-行走”计时测试(TUGT)、西安大略和麦克马斯特大学骨关节炎指数(WOMAC)评价膝关节功能,并于出院3个月后进行满意度评分对远期疗效进行观察。结果:治疗4周后,2组膝关节的主动活动度(AROM)和被动活动度(PROM)、VAS、平衡功能各项评分、TUGT时间、WOMAC评分均显著优于训练前(均P<0.05),且观察组均优于对照组(P<0.05);患者出院3个月后满意度观察组为92.16%,明显高于对照组80.39%(P<0.01)。结论:在常规康复干预基础上联用本体感觉训练能进一步缓解KOA患者疼痛,改善膝关节功能、屈膝角度及平衡能力,提高患者生...     

The efficacy of high- and low-dose curcumin in knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to critically appraise and evaluate effects of low- and high-dose curcuminoids on pain and functional improvement in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) and to compare adverse events (AEs) between curcuminoids and non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).MethodsWe systematically reviewed all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on curcuminoids in knee osteoarthritis from the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, AMED, Cinahl, ISI Web of Science, Chinese medical database, and Indian Scientific databases from inception to June 21, 2021.ResultsWe included eleven studies with a total of 1258 participants with primary knee OA. The meta-analysis results showed that curcuminoids were significantly more effective than comparators regarding visual analogue scale (VAS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) pain scores. However, no significant difference in pain relief or AEs between the high-dose (daily dose ≥1000 mg or total dose ≥42 gm) and low-dose (daily dose <1000 mg or total dose <42 gm) curcuminoid treatments was observed. When comparing curcumininoids versus NSAIDs, a significant difference in VAS pain was found. For AE analysis, three of our included studies used NSAIDs as comparators, with all reporting higher AE rates in the NSAID group, though significance was reached in only one study.ConclusionsThe results of our meta-analysis suggest that low- and high-dose curcuminoids have similar pain relief effects and AEs in knee OA. Curcuminoids are also associated with better pain relief than NSAIDs; therefore, using curcuminoids as an adjunctive treatment in knee OA is recommended.     

药物中频导入辅助康复训练对膝骨关节炎患者疼痛程度及膝关节功能的影响

目的研究药物中频导入辅助康复训练对膝骨关节炎(KOA)患者疼痛程度及膝关节功能的影响。方法前瞻性选择2016年1月至2018年12月上海市瑞金康复医院收治的330例KOA患者,采用随机数字表法将患者分为对照组和观察组,每组各165例。对照组患者采用玻璃酸钠注射联合康复训练治疗,观察组患者在对照组的基础上加用中频电药物导入治疗。比较两组患者的疼痛程度[视觉模拟评分法(VAS)]、膝关节功能[Lysholm膝关节功能评分、西安大略和麦克马斯特大学骨关节炎指数(WOMAC)]、生活质量[健康状况调查简表(SF-36)]和炎症因子[肿瘤坏死因子-α(TNF-α)、白细胞介素-6(IL-6)、白介素-1β(IL-1β)]水平。结果治疗后,两组患者的SF-36评分、Lysholm评分和VAS评分均有所改善,观察组患者的Lysholm评分和SF-36评分分别为(77. 14±9. 26)分和(87. 91±9. 48)分,均高于对照组,VAS评分为(1. 62±0. 35)分,低于对照组,差异具有统计学意义(P <0. 05)。治疗后,两组患者的WOMAC评分均明显下降,观察组患者的疼痛评分、僵硬评分、关节功能评分和WOMAC总分分别为(3. 16±0. 84)分、(2. 03±0. 47)分、(19. 78±3. 26)分和(27. 72±4. 18)分,均低于对照组,差异具有统计学意义(P <0. 05)。治疗后,观察组患者的TNF-α、IL-6和IL-1β水平分别为(11. 26±1. 73) ng/L、(10. 84±1. 85) ng/L和(16. 92±2. 26) ng/L,均低于对照组,差异具有统计学意义(P <0. 05)。结论中频电药物导入联合玻璃酸钠注射及康复训练治疗可以改善KOA患者的膝关节功能,减轻患者的疼痛症状和炎症反应,提高生活质量,值得在临床推广应用。     

Effects of progressive resistance strength training on knee biomechanics during single leg step-up in persons with mild knee osteoarthritis

Background

The goal of this study was to determine if increasing strength in primary knee extensors and flexors would directly affect net knee joint moments during a common functional task in persons with knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

An exploratory single sample clinical trial with pre-post treatment measures was used to study volunteers with clinical diagnosis of mild knee osteoarthritis (OA) in one knee. Subjects participated in an individually supervised training program 3 times a week for eight weeks consisting of progressive resistive exercises for knee extensors and knee flexors. Pre and post training outcome assessments included: 1. Net internal knee joint moments, 2. Electromyography of primary knee extensors and flexors, and 3. Self-report measures of knee pain and function. The distribution of lower extremity joint moments as a percent of the total support moment was also investigated.

Findings

Pain, symptoms, activities of daily life, quality of life, stiffness, and function scores showed significant improvement following strength training. Knee internal valgus and hip internal rotation moments showed increasing but non-statistically significant changes post-training. There were no significant differences in muscle co-contraction activation of the Quadriceps and Hamstrings.

Interpretation

While exercise continues to be an important element of OA management, the results of this study suggest improvements in function, pain, and other symptoms, as a result of strength training may not be causally related to specific biomechanical changes in net joint moments.     

膝关节骨关节炎患者的多点间歇等长练习

增强关节周围肌肉，改善关节稳定性是膝关节骨关节炎康复治疗的关键之一。作者使用了一种新的方法－多点间歇等长练习，１４例患者经过３～６周的练习，屈伸膝肌群的峰力矩，单次最佳作功，爆发力等肌肉功能明显增强，在肌肉功能增强的同时，平地行走，登楼梯，坐位立起等下肢功能性行为能力也明显得到改善，膝关节疼痛明显缓解。     

Non-pharmacological interventions for anxiety in burn patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AimPresent review aimed to conduct a comprehensive review of the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) on reducing anxiety in adult burn patients.MethodWe searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases through September 2019 for randomized clinical trials comparing NPIs to a control group. The primary outcomes were general anxiety and pain anxiety. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool was used to assess the risk of bias. All data was pooled with Revman 5.3.Results20 studies were eligible for quantitative synthesis. Compared to routine care, Music (4 Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs), Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) = –2.00, 95 % Confidence Interval (CI) = –3.21 to –0.79), massage (4 RCTs, SMD= –1.84, 95 % CI= –2.77 to –0.91), hypnosis (2 RCTs, SMD= −1.06, 95 % CI= −2.90 to 0.78), relaxation (2 RCTs, SMD= −0.77, 95 %CI= −1.52 to −0.02), transcranial direct current stimulation (1 RCT, SMD= −1.92, 95 %CI= −2.54 to −1.30), and therapeutic touch practices (1 RCT, SMD=−0.45 95 %CI= −0.86 to −0.04), were associated with a significant effect on the anxiety of burn patients. Aromatherapy interventions and virtual reality showed no evidence of a reduction in the anxiety. A large amount of heterogeneity exist among trials. Risk of bias varied across studies. Only one study reported on safety issues.ConclusionDue to weak evidence, we are unable to make strong recommendations in favor of NPIs for burn anxiety. Further well-designed large sample size randomized clinical trials are warranted.     

核心稳定训练在非特异性腰背痛患者中应用效果的系统评价

目的系统性评价核心稳定训练与一般运动或手法治疗对非特异性腰背痛患者的康复疗效。方法计算机检索Medline、EMBASE、PubMed、Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials、PsycINFO、中国生物医学文献数据库、CNKI、中国科技期刊全文数据库和万方数据库,检索时间从建库到2018年10月20日。收集所有核心稳定训练对非特异性腰背痛患者康复效果的随机对照试验(RCT)和临床对照研究。2名研究者按照纳入和排除标准独立检索文献、筛选文献、评价纳入文献的质量,并提取资料,使用Revman 5.3软件进行Meta分析。结果共纳入14篇文献,均为RCT。Meta分析结果显示,核心稳定运动训练组与一般运动训练组疼痛改善对比结果(Z=4.67,P<0.001)[OR=1.01,95%CI(-1.43,-0.59)],证据显示有统计学意义(P<0.05);稳定运动训练和一般运动训练后患者的脊柱功能障碍评分对比(Z=5.03,P<0.01)[OR=-7.18,95%CI(-9.98,-4.38)],证据显示有统计学意义(P<0.05)。其他指标对比结果均无统计学意义(P>0.05)。结论核心运动组和手法治疗组都能有效地降低非特异腰背痛患者疼痛,并且核心稳定训练能促进非特异性腰背痛患者功能障碍的缓解,鼓励将核心稳定训练作为非特异性腰痛患者肌肉骨骼康复的一部分。     

Efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation for treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.MethodsA literature review was conducted using the PubMed, Cochrane Review, Embase, and Google Scholar databases. Two reviewers independently assessed the eligibility of all retrieved studies. The research was reported based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to ensure the reliability and verity of the results. The statistical analysis was performed using STATA version 13.0.ResultsNine randomized controlled trials were collected for the data extraction and meta-analysis. Significant differences in the pain score at 4, 12, and 24 weeks were found between patients treated with radiofrequency ablation and those treated with placebo. Furthermore, the use of radiofrequency ablation was associated with an improved outcome of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index at 4, 12, and 24 weeks. No serious adverse events were observed in any patients who underwent radiofrequency ablation.ConclusionRadiofrequency ablation is efficacious and safe for reducing pain and improving knee function in patients with knee osteoarthritis, without increasing the risk of adverse effects.     

Associations between gait and clinical parameters in patients with severe knee osteoarthritis: A multiple correspondence analysis

Background

Given the complexity of the gait of patients with knee osteoarthritis, a multiple correspondence analysis may be helpful to optimise the extraction of relevant gait and clinical information. Therefore, the aims of this study are to identify the main associations with clinical and gait biomechanical parameters and to evaluate whether there are more specific knee osteoarthritis groups with different gait profiles.

Methods

Ninety patients with severe knee osteoarthritis and twenty-six healthy individuals participated in this study. Pain and function were assessed with the WOMAC Index; knee joint deformity was assessed by the hip-knee-ankle angle on full-limb radiography; and full body gait analysis was performed with a motion analysis system and force plates.

Findings

Using multiple correspondence analysis, two categories of gait parameters that best explain the gait variance of patients with knee osteoarthritis were highlighted. The forward displacement category is composed of the parameters speed, stride length, hip flexion and knee flexion. The frontal category is composed of the parameters thorax obliquity and knee adductor moments. Moreover, based on these parameters, four distinct gait profiles were identified: two gait profiles were associated with knee varus deformities, increased thorax obliquity and different forward displacements, while two gait profiles were associated with valgus deformities and different forward displacements.

Interpretation

These gait parameters can be used to simplify the characterisation of the gait of the knee osteoarthritis population. Patients in varus profiles increase thorax obliquity on the stance limb and may reduce forward displacement. Patients in valgus profiles, however, only reduce forward displacement.     

Efficacy and potential determinants of exercise therapy in knee and hip osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundExercise is an effective treatment for osteoarthritis. However, the effect may vary from one patient (or study) to another.ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of exercise and its potential determinants for pain, function, performance, and quality of life (QoL) in knee and hip osteoarthritis (OA).MethodsWe searched 9 electronic databases (AMED, CENTRAL, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE Ovid, PEDro, PubMed, SPORTDiscus and Google Scholar) for reports of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing exercise-only interventions with usual care. The search was performed from inception up to December 2017 with no language restriction. The effect size (ES), with its 95% confidence interval (CI), was calculated on the basis of between-group standardised mean differences. The primary endpoint was at or nearest to 8 weeks. Other outcome time points were grouped into intervals, from < 1 month to ≥ 18 months, for time-dependent effects analysis. Potential determinants were explored by subgroup analyses. Level of significance was set at P ≤ 0.10.ResultsData from 77 RCTs (6472 participants) confirmed statistically significant exercise benefits for pain (ES 0.56, 95% CI 0.44–0.68), function (0.50, 0.38–0.63), performance (0.46, 0.35–0.57), and QoL (0.21, 0.11–0.31) at or nearest to 8 weeks. Across all outcomes, the effects appeared to peak around 2 months and then gradually decreased and became no better than usual care after 9 months. Better pain relief was reported by trials investigating participants who were younger (mean age < 60 years), had knee OA, and were not awaiting joint replacement surgery.ConclusionsExercise significantly reduces pain and improves function, performance and QoL in people with knee and hip OA as compared with usual care at 8 weeks. The effects are maximal around 2 months and thereafter slowly diminish, being no better than usual care at 9 to 18 months. Participants with younger age, knee OA and not awaiting joint replacement may benefit more from exercise therapy. These potential determinants, identified by study-level analyses, may have implied ecological bias and need to be confirmed with individual patient data.     

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug or glucosamine reduced pain and improved muscle strength with resistance training in a randomized controlled trial of knee osteoarthritis patients

Petersen SG, Beyer N, Hansen M, Holm L, Aagaard P, Mackey AL, Kjaer M. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug or glucosamine reduced pain and improved muscle strength with resistance training in a randomized controlled trial of knee osteoarthritis patients.

Objectives

To investigate the effect of 12 weeks of strength training in combination with a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), glucosamine, or placebo on muscle cross-sectional area (CSA), strength (primary outcome parameters), and function, power, pain, and satellite cell number (secondary outcome parameters) in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Design

Double-blinded, randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Hospital.

Participants

Patients (N=36; 20 women, 16 men; age range, 50–70y) with bilateral tibiofemoral knee OA. A total of 181 patients were approached, and 145 were excluded.

Interventions

Patients were randomly assigned to treatment with the NSAID ibuprofen (n=12), glucosamine (n=12), or placebo (n=12) during 12 weeks of quadriceps muscle strength training.

Main Outcome Measures

Muscle CSA and strength.

Results

No differences between groups were observed in gains in muscle CSA. Training combined with ibuprofen increased maximal isometric strength by an additional .22Nm/kg (95% confidence interval [CI], .01–.42; P=.04), maximal eccentric muscle strength by .38Nm/kg (95% CI, .05–.70; P=.02), and eccentric muscle work by .27J/kg (95% CI, .01–.53; P=.04) in comparison with placebo. Training combined with glucosamine increased maximal concentric muscle work by an additional .24J/kg versus placebo (95% CI, .06–.42; P=.01).

Conclusions

In patients with knee OA, NSAID or glucosamine administration during a 12-week strength-training program did not improve muscle mass gain, but improved maximal muscle strength gain in comparison with treatment with placebo. However, we do not find that the benefits are large enough to justify taking NSAIDs or glucosamine.     

Volume and mobility of the infrapatellar fat pad during quasi-static knee extension after manual therapy in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a randomized control trial study

[Purpose] This study aimed to determine whether the volume and mobility of the infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP) change as a result of manual release or stretching during quasi-static knee extension in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). [Participants and Methods] Fourteen patients with KOA were allocated to one of two groups: the manual release (R) and stretching (S, control) groups. They all underwent 12 treatment sessions in in a space of four weeks. We created 3D models of the IPFP, tibia, patella, and patellar tendon using sagittal MRI scans with the knee at 30° or 0°. We compared the differences in (1) the distance of anterior movement of the anterior surface of the IPFP (IPFP movement) and (2) the volume of the IPFP, between the R and S groups, using the 3D models. [Results] Neither group showed any anterior movement of the IPFP during quasi-static knee extension at pre-intervention; however, both groups showed significant anterior movement of the IPFP at post-intervention. IPFP movement decreased in the S group, meanwhile it increased in the R group at post-intervention. [Conclusion] Anterior movement of the IPFP was more increased by manual release than by stretching since the latter may have shortened the distance between the patella and tibial tuberosity at 0° and 30° flexion.     

The effect of almond intake on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

ObjectiveThe present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed determine the efficacy of almond intake on blood pressure (BP).MethodsPubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, Cochrane library and Google Scholar were comprehensively searched to infinity until December 2019. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) reporting effects of almond intake on aortic and brachial BP were included. Weighted mean differences (WMDs) were pooled using a random-effects model. Standard methods were used for assessment of heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias.ResultsA total of 16 RCTs (1128 participants) were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled analysis suggested that almond intake can reduced diastolic BP (DBP) (WMD = -1.30 mmHg; 95 % CI: -2.31,-0.30, p = 0.01, I² = 0.0 %). However, there was not any impact of almond intake on systolic BP (SBP) (WMD = -0.83 mmHg; 95 % CI: -2.55, 0.89, p = 0.34, I² = 58.9 %). Subgroup analysis revealed a significant reduction in SBP levels in subjects with lower SBP and lower dose of almonds.ConclusionWe found that almonds might have a considerable favorite effect in BP and especially in DBP, and it could be encouraged as part of a healthy diet; however due to the high calorie content, the intake should be part of healthy diet.     

Effectiveness of dry needling techniques in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundDry needling has been found to be effective in various myofascial pain syndromes and musculoskeletal conditions. However, there is a need to evaluate the effects of dry needling techniques in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Hence, the objective of this systematic review was to identify and critically review the evidence on the short-term and long-term effects of dry needling techniques in patients with knee osteoarthritis.MethodsDatabases such as Pubmed, Cochrane library, and Scopus were searched from their inception to July 2019 for randomized controlled trials using dry needling as an active intervention against control/sham/placebo treatment in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The quality of the selected studies was analyzed using Cochrane tool for assessment of risk of bias.ResultsOut of 247 studies, 9 studies were included in the review. The qualitative synthesis for myofascial trigger point dry needling showed contradictory results. The mean difference for periosteal stimulation was significant on pain and function immediately post-treatment (p < 0.00001). The mean difference for intramuscular electrical stimulation on pain was significant (p = 0.03), but marked heterogeneity was found among the studies.ConclusionGood quality studies on myofascial trigger point needling and intramuscular electrical stimulation are required to evaluate their effects in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The review demonstrates a moderate-quality evidence on the short-term effect of periosteal stimulation technique on pain and function in knee osteoarthritis. Future studies comparing the effects of various techniques of dry needling with different dosages and long-term follow up need to be conducted.     

体外冲击波结合经穴治疗膝关节骨性关节炎的疗效观察

目的：本研究拟通过临床随机对照研究探讨体外冲击波结合经穴治疗膝关节骨性关节炎的临床疗效。方法：将39例早中期膝关节骨性关节炎患者随机分为观察组19例和对照组20例。2组均采用发散式体外冲击波治疗,对照组单纯给予冲击波痛点治疗,观察组在冲击波痛点治疗的基础上依据循经取穴原则增加对血海穴和梁丘穴的刺激。所有受试者分别在治疗前、治疗4周后行疼痛视觉模拟评分法（VAS）、西安大略和麦克马斯特大学骨关节炎指数评分（WOMAC）、6分钟步行实验（6MWT）等评定,并在治疗后记录《中医病证诊断疗效标准》中骨痹的疗效评价以及不良反应。结果：治疗4周后,2组患者VAS评分和WOMAC评分均较治疗前明显降低（P<0.01）,6MWT行走距离较治疗前明显增加（P<0.05）;且观察组VAS评分较对照组降低（P<0.05）;WOMAC评分及6MWT 2组间比较差异无统计学意义。治疗后,治疗后观察组《中医病症诊断疗效标准》中骨痹的疗效评价标准评估临床优良率为89%,对照组为80%。2组患者均未出现明显不良反应。结论：体外冲击波结合经穴治疗可减轻膝关节骨性关节炎患者的疼痛、改善膝关节功能、提高步行能力。