Project description:BackgroundThe patient's position during spinal anesthesia administration plays a major role in the success of spinal needle insertion into the subarachnoid space. The traditional sitting position (TSP) is the standard position for spinal anesthesia administration, but the success rate for spinal anesthesia administration in the TSP is still quite low. The crossed-leg sitting position (CLSP) is one of the alternative positions for the administration of spinal anesthesia, which can increase the degree of lumbar flexion.ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare successful spinal needle placement to patients in the CLSP and patients in the TSP prior to undergoing urology surgery.MethodsThis study was a non-blinded, randomized controlled trial in patients undergoing spinal anesthesia for urologic procedures from March-October, 2015 in the central national hospital Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo, Indonesia. After obtaining approval from the FMUI - RSCM (Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia - Rumah Sakit Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo) Ethical Committee and informed consent from patients, 211 subjects were allocated into two groups: the CLSP group (n = 105) and the TSP group (n = 106). The proportion of successful spinal needle placement to the subarachnoid space, ease of landmark palpation, and the number of needle-bone contacts in both groups were then assessed and analyzed.ResultsThe rate of first-time successful spinal needle insertion was not significantly different between the CLSP and TSP groups (62.9% versus 55.7%, P > 0.05). Ease of landmark palpation in the CLSP group was not significantly different from that in the TSP group (86.7% versus 76.4%, P > 0.05). The number of needle-bone contacts in both groups were not significantly different (P > 0.05). The complication rates were similar in both groups.ConclusionsThe rate of successful spinal needle placement in the CLSP group was not significantly different from that in the TSP group in patients undergoing urology surgery. The CLSP can be used as an alternative sitting position for administration of spinal anesthesia.
Project description:BackgroundGeneral anesthesia with neuromuscular blockade may facilitate total shoulder arthroplasty but appears to increase risk of cerebral oxygen desaturation. Cerebral desaturation is undesirable and is a proxy for risk of stroke.Purposes/questionsThis study tested the hypothesis that cerebral oxygen desaturation occurs frequently during general anesthesia with neuromuscular blockade and positive-pressure ventilation but does not occur with spontaneous ventilation. Correlations were sought among cerebral oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and cardiac index.MethodsWe designed a prospective, observational, cohort study to measure cerebral oxygenation in 25 patients during general anesthesia, both with and without positive-pressure ventilation. Patients undergoing elective shoulder arthroplasty in the sitting position received an arterial catheter, near-infrared spectroscopic measurement of cerebral oxygenation, and non-invasive cardiac output measurement. Moderate hypotension was allowed. Blood pressure was supported as needed with ephedrine or low-dose epinephrine (but avoiding phenylephrine). Hypercapnia (45 to 55 mmHg) was targeted during positive-pressure ventilation.ResultsNo cerebral oxygen desaturations occurred, regardless of ventilation mode. Under positive-pressure ventilation, the median (interquartile range: Q1, Q3) cerebral oxygenation was 110% of baseline (104, 113), the mean arterial pressure was 62% of baseline (59, 69), and the cardiac index was 82% of baseline (71, 104). Cerebral oxygenation did not correlate with blood pressure or cardiac index but had moderate correlation with end-tidal carbon dioxide. No strokes occurred.ConclusionsThere were no signs of inadequate brain perfusion during general anesthesia using paralytic agents. Positive-pressure ventilation with moderate hypotension in the sitting position does not endanger patients, in the context of moderate hypercapnia and hemodynamic support using ephedrine or epinephrine.
Project description:IntroductionRocker shoes and insoles are used to prevent diabetic foot ulcers in persons with diabetes mellitus and loss of protective sensation, by reducing the plantar pressure in regions with high pressure values (>200 kPa) (e.g., hallux, metatarsal heads and heel). However, forefoot rocker shoes that reduce pressure in the forefoot inadvertently increase pressure in the heel. No studies focused on mitigating the negative effects on heel pressure by optimizing the heel rocker midsole, yet. Therefore, we analyze the effect of different heel rocker parameters on the heel plantar pressure.MethodsIn-shoe pressure was measured, while 10 healthy participants walked with control shoe and 10 different heel rocker settings. Peak pressure was determined in 7 heel masks, for all shoes. Generalized estimating equations was performed to test the effect of the different shoes on the peak pressure in the different heel masks.ResultsIn the proximal heel, a rocker shoe with distal apex position, small rocker radius and large apex angle (100°), shows the largest significant decrease in peak pressure compared to rocker shoes with more proximally located apex positions. In the midheel and distal heel, the same rocker shoes or any other rocker shoes, analyzed in this study, do not reduce the PP more than 2 % compared to the control shoe. For the midheel and distal heel region with high pressure values (>200 kPa), rocker shoes alone are not the correct option to reduce the pressure to below 200 kPa.ConclusionWhen using rocker shoes to reduce the pressure in the forefoot, a heel rocker midsole with a distal apex position, small rocker radius and apex angle of 100°, mitigates the negative effects on proximal heel pressure. For the midheel and distal heel, other footwear options as an addition or instead of rocker shoes are needed to reduce the pressure.
Project description:Plantar pressure measurement is common practice in many research and clinical protocols. While the accuracy of some plantar pressure measuring devices and methods for ensuring consistency in data collection on plantar pressure measuring devices have been reported, the reliability of different devices when testing the same individuals is not known. This study calculated intra-mat, intra-manufacturer, and inter-manufacturer reliability of plantar pressure parameters as well as the number of plantar pressure trials needed to reach a stable estimate of the mean for an individual. Twenty-two healthy adults completed ten walking trials across each of two Novel emed-x(®) and two Tekscan MatScan(®) plantar pressure measuring devices in a single visit. Intraclass correlation (ICC) was used to describe the agreement between values measured by different devices. All intra-platform reliability correlations were greater than 0.70. All inter-emed-x(®) reliability correlations were greater than 0.70. Inter-MatScan(®) reliability correlations were greater than 0.70 in 31 and 52 of 56 parameters when looking at a 10-trial average and a 5-trial average, respectively. Inter-manufacturer reliability including all four devices was greater than 0.70 for 52 and 56 of 56 parameters when looking at a 10-trial average and a 5-trial average, respectively. All parameters reached a value within 90% of an unbiased estimate of the mean within five trials. Overall, reliability results are encouraging for investigators and clinicians who may have plantar pressure data sets that include data collected on different devices.
Project description:BackgroundDistal metatarsal osteotomy has been used to alleviate plantar pressure caused by anatomic deformities. This study's purpose was to examine the effect of minimally invasive floating metatarsal osteotomy on plantar pressure in patients with diabetic metatarsal head ulcers.MethodsWe performed a retrospective case series of prospectively collected data on 32 patients with diabetes complicated by plantar metatarsal head ulcers without ischemia. Peak plantar pressure and pressure time integrals were examined using the Tekscan MatScan prior to surgery and 6 months following minimally invasive floating metatarsal osteotomy. Patients were followed for complications for at least 1 year.ResultsPeak plantar pressure at the level of the osteotomized metatarsal head decreased from 338.1 to 225.4 kPa (P < .0001). The pressure time integral decreased from 82.4 to 65.0 kPa·s (P < .0001). All ulcers healed within a mean of 3.7 ± 4.2 weeks. There was 1 recurrence (under a hypertrophic callus of the osteotomy) during a median follow-up of 18.3 months (range, 12.2-27). Following surgery, adjacent sites showed increased plantar pressure and 4 patients developed transfer lesions (under an adjacent metatarsal head); all were managed successfully. There was 1 serious adverse event related to surgery (operative site infection) that resolved with antibiotics.ConclusionThis study showed that the minimally invasive floating metatarsal osteotomy successfully reduced local plantar pressure and that the method was safe and effective, both in treatment and prevention of recurrence.Level of evidenceLevel III, retrospective case series of prospectively collected data.
Project description:BackgroundLeprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, predominantly affecting the peripheral nerves, resulting in sensory and motor deficits in the feet. Foot ulcers and imbalances are frequent manifestations in leprosy, often correlating with diminished sensitivity. While clinical scales and monofilament esthesiometers are conventionally utilized to evaluate foot sensitivity and balance in these patients, their discriminatory power is limited and their effectiveness is greatly dependent on the examiner's proficiency. In contrast, baropodometry and posturography offer a more comprehensive evaluation, aiming to preempt potential damage events. This study aimed was to assess the correlation between baropodometry and force plate measurements in leprosy patients and control participants, to improve the prevention and treatment of foot ulcers and complications associated with leprosy.MethodologyThis cross-sectional study was conducted during 2022 and enrolled 39 participants (22 patients with multibacillary leprosy and 17 non-leprosy controls). Demographic data were collected, and a monofilament esthesiometer was used to assess sensory deficits. In addition, physical examinations and balance and plantar pressure tests were conducted. The Student's t-test was used to compare mean and maximum plantar pressures between groups. For most COP variables, a Mann-Whitney Wilcoxon test was used, except for AP amplitude which was analyzed with the Student's t-test due to its normal distribution. The relationship between foot pressure and balance control was assessed using Spearman's correlation, focusing on areas with significant pressure differences between groups.Principal findingsLeprosy patients showed increased pressure in forefoot areas (T1, M1, T2-T5, and M2) and decreased pressure in hindfoot regions (MH and LH) compared to controls. These patients also displayed higher AP and ML amplitudes, suggesting poorer COP control. Correlation analyses between the two groups revealed that foot plantar pressures significantly impact balance control. Specifically, increased T1 region pressures correlated with greater sway in balance tasks, while decreased MH region pressures were linked to reduced COP control.Conclusions/significanceThe findings suggest a joint disturbance of plantar pressure distribution and static balance control in leprosy patients. These alterations may increase the risk of tissue injuries, including calluses and deformities, as well as falls.
Project description:The purpose of this study was to investigate the evolution of ground reaction force during alpine skiing turns. Specifically, this study investigated how turn phases and slope steepness affected the whole foot normal GRF pattern while performing giant slalom turns in a race-like setting. Moreover, the outside foot was divided into different plantar regions to see whether those parameters affected the plantar pressure distribution. Eleven skiers performed one giant slalom course at race intensity. Runs were recorded synchronously using a video camera in the frontal plane and pressure insoles under both feet's plantar surface. Turns were divided according to kinematic criteria into four consecutive phases: initiation, steering1, steering2 and completion; both steering phases being separated by the gate passage. Component of the averaged Ground Reaction Force normal to the ski's surface([Formula: see text], /BW), and Pressure Time Integral relative to the entire foot surface (relPTI, %) parameters were calculated for each turn phases based on plantar pressure data. Results indicated that [Formula: see text] under the total foot surface differed significantly depending on the slope (higher in steep sections vs. flat sections), and the turn phase (higher during steering2 vs. three other phases), although such modifications were observable only on the outside foot. Moreover, [Formula: see text] under the outside foot was significantly greater than under the inside foot.RelPTI under different foot regions of the outside foot revealed a global shift from forefoot loading during initiation phase, toward heel loading during steering2 phase, but this was dependent on the slope studied. These results suggest a differentiated role played by each foot in alpine skiing turns: the outside foot has an active role in the turning process, while the inside foot may only play a role in stability.
Project description:BackgroundSarcopenia is a progressive and generalised loss of muscle mass and function with advancing age and is a major contributor to frailty. These conditions lead to functional disability, loss of independence, and lower quality of life. Sedentary behaviour is adversely associated with sarcopenia and frailty. Reducing and breaking up sitting should thus be explored as an intervention target for their management. The primary aim of this study, therefore, is to examine the feasibility, safety, and acceptability of conducting a randomised controlled trial (RCT) that evaluates a remotely delivered intervention to improve sarcopenia and independent living via reducing and breaking up sitting in frail older adults.MethodsThis mixed-methods randomised controlled feasibility trial will recruit 60 community-dwelling older adults aged ≥ 65 years with very mild or mild frailty. After baseline measures, participants will be randomised to receive the Frail-LESS (LEss Sitting and Sarcopenia in Frail older adults) intervention or serve as controls (usual care) for 6 months. Frail-LESS is a remotely delivered intervention comprising of tailored feedback on sitting, information on the health risks of excess sitting, supported goal setting and action planning, a wearable device that tracks inactive time and provides alerts to move, health coaching, and peer support. Feasibility will be assessed in terms of recruitment, retention and data completion rates. A process evaluation will assess intervention acceptability, safety, and fidelity of the trial. The following measures will be taken at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months: sitting, standing, and stepping using a thigh-worn activPAL4 device, sarcopenia (via hand grip strength, muscle mass, and physical function), mood, wellbeing, and quality of life.DiscussionThis study will determine the feasibility, safety, and acceptability of evaluating a remote intervention to reduce and break up sitting to support improvements in sarcopenia and independent living in frail older adults. A future definitive RCT to determine intervention effectiveness will be informed by the study findings.Trial registrationISRCTN, ISRCTN17158017; Registered 6 August 2021, https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN17158017.
Project description:BackgroundDespite the established relevance of ultrasonography and assessment of pressure pain thresholds in patients with plantar fasciopathy, patient and probe positioning has been mostly ignored and are not necessarily reported in research. The primary aim of this study was to compare plantar fascia thickness in stretched and relaxed positions in patients with plantar fasciopathy. The secondary aim was to compare plantar heel pressure pain thresholds in these positions.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, we measured the plantar fascia thickness with ultrasonography, and localised pressure pain thresholds using pressure algometry of 20 patients with plantar fasciopathy. These were assessed bilaterally, with the plantar fascia in both a stretched and relaxed position. In the stretched position, toes were maximally dorsiflexed, while in the relaxed position participants' feet were hanging freely over the end of the table.ResultsThe plantar fascia of the most symptomatic foot was significantly thicker when stretched compared with the relaxed position (sagittal: mean difference 0.2 mm, 95%CI: 0.1-0.4, P = 0.013; frontal: mean difference - 0.27, 95%CI: - 0.49 to - 0.06, P = 0.014). The plantar fascia was significantly thinner in the frontal plane compared with the sagittal plane in both positions (stretched: mean difference - 0.2 mm, 95%CI: - 0.42 to - 0.03, P = 0.025; relaxed: mean difference - 0.3 mm, 95%CI:-0.49 to - 0.08, P = 0.008). There was no difference between pressure pain thresholds in stretched or relaxed positions in either foot (P > 0.4).ConclusionsThe plantar fascia was significantly thicker in a stretched compared with a relaxed position and in the sagittal compared with the frontal plane, but differences were smaller than the standard deviation. Pressure pain thresholds were not different between the positions. These results highlight the importance of how ultrasonography is performed and reported in research to allow for replication.Trial registrationThe study was pre-registered September 25th, 2017 on ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT03291665 ).
Project description:In cross-country sit-skiing (XCSS), athletes with reduced trunk control predominantly sit with the knees higher than the hips (KH); a position often associated with large spinal flexion. Therefore, to improve spinal curvature a new sledge with frontal trunk support, where knees are lower than hips (KL) was created. It was hypothesized that the KL position would improve respiratory function and enhance performance in seated double-poling compared to KH.Ten female able-bodied cross-country skiers (age 25.5 ± 3.8 years, height 1.65 ± 0.05 m, mass 61.1 ± 6.8 kg) completed a 30 s all-out test (WIN), a submaximal incremental test including 3-7 3 min loads (SUB) and a maximal 3 min time trial (MAX) in both KL and KH positions. During SUB and MAX external power, pole forces, surface electromyography, and kinematics were measured. Metabolic rates were calculated from oxygen consumption and blood lactate concentrations.KL reduced spinal flexion and range of motion at the hip joint and indicated more muscle activation in the triceps. Performance (W kg-1) was impeded in both WIN (KH 1.40 ± 0.30 vs. KL 1.13 ± 0.33, p < 0.01) and MAX (KH 0.88 ± 0.19 vs. KL 0.67 ± 0.14, p < 0.01). KH resulted in higher gross efficiency (GE) and lower lactate concentration, anaerobic metabolic rate, and minute ventilation for equal power output.The new KL position can be recommended due to improved respiratory function but may impede performance. Generalization of results to XCSS athletes with reduced trunk muscle control may be limited, but these results can serve as a control for future studies of para-athletes.