European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society
-
Clinical observation suggests that hip abductor weakness is common in patients with low back pain (LBP). The purpose of this study is to describe and compare the prevalence of hip abductor weakness in a clinical population with chronic non-specific LBP and a matched sample without LBP. ⋯ Gluteus medius weakness and gluteal muscle tenderness are common symptoms in people with chronic non-specific LBP. Future investigations should validate these findings with quantitative measures as well as investigate the effect of gluteus medius strengthening in people with LBP.
-
To present a systematic review on ICF used in the Nordic countries from 2001 to 2013, describing and quantifying the development in utilization of ICF, and describe the extent to which the different components of the ICF have been used. ⋯ There was an increase in ICF-relevant papers from 2001 to 2013, especially in the categories 'clinical and/or rehabilitation contexts' and 'non clinical contexts'. The most represented focus areas were neurology, musculoskeletal and work-related areas. All five or at least four ICF components were mentioned in the results or discussions in most papers; activity was most frequently mentioned.
-
To investigate the causes of late-onset, progressive neurological deficits in patients with severe angular kyphosis caused by spondylitis secondary to tuberculosis (TB spondylitis). ⋯ In their evaluation of paraplegic patients, spine surgeons should consider the many potential causes of late-onset neurological deficits in TB spondylitis to avoid performing unnecessary surgery. A simpler procedure may yield equivalent results.
-
Spondylodiscitis is a spinal infection affecting primarily the intervertebral disk and the adjacent vertebral bodies. Currently many aspects of the treatment of pyogenic spondylodiscitis are still a matter of debate. ⋯ There is a strong level of recommendation for 6 weeks of antibiotic treatment in pyogenic spondylodiscitis although this has only been shown by one recent RCT. If surgical treatment is indicated, it has been suggested by two prospective studies with strong level of recommendation that an isolated anterior approach could result in a better clinical outcome.