Physiotherapy
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To determine the prevalence of latent myofascial trigger points (MTrPs), specific diagnostic criteria and the association between gender and MTrP prevalence in the triceps surae and upper trapezius. ⋯ This study established the prevalence of latent MTrPs, specific diagnostic criteria and baseline normative data in the triceps surae. The middle fibres of deltoid were identified as a potential MTrP control site for future clinical research in the upper limb.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Exercise and self-management for people with chronic knee, hip or lower back pain: a cluster randomised controlled trial of clinical and cost-effectiveness. Study protocol.
Chronic musculoskeletal pain and osteoarthritis can significantly limit the functional independence of individuals, and given that 25% of the population experience these problems, the socioeconomic impact is immense. Exercise and self-management have proven benefits for these conditions, but most trials tailor interventions for specific joints. Epidemiological data demonstrates that many older people with degenerative joint problems experience pain and functional difficulty in other joints, seeking further healthcare input when these present. Managing multiple joint presentations simultaneously could potentially reduce the need for repeat visits to healthcare professionals as advice is frequently the same for differing site presentations. This single-blind cluster randomised controlled trial will determine the clinical and cost-effectiveness of an exercise and self-management intervention delivered to people over-50 with either hip, knee or lower back pain, compared to 'standard' GP care. A qualitative analysis will also establish the acceptability of the intervention. ⋯ Ethical approval was received from South West 4 REC, identification number 11/SW/0053. Study findings will be disseminated via conference and journal presentation; via arthritis charitable organisations; and through local GP consortia.