Spine
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Prospective, blinded validation study of an objective, quantitative measure to assess maximum canal compromise (MCC) and maximum spinal cord compression (MSCC) in individuals with acute cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). ⋯ Our results indicate that the intraobserver reliability for the MCC and MSCC was high. Although the interobserver reliability for all three radiologic parameters in the present study was below 0.75, the observed differences were small and largely accounted for by the limitations in the precision of the calibrated ruler. For cases with minimal cord compression, the measurement of canal stenosis (MCC) proved more accurate. In contrast, in cases with severe cord compression, the assessment of MSCC was more accurate. It is anticipated that the use of digital imaging technologies will further enhance the precision of these outcome measures.
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A cross-sectional study of 9413 adolescents. ⋯ Children with high isometric muscle endurance were less likely to report back pain. No other measures of physical fitness or level of self-reported physical activity were linked to back pain reporting.
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Comparative Study
The effects of rod contouring on spinal construct fatigue strength.
In vitro fatigue loading using a corpectomy model outfitted with posterior pedicle screw instrumentation. ⋯ Intraoperative rod contouring using a French Bender significantly reduces the fatigue life of titanium spinal constructs.
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A longitudinal follow-up of Modic changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). ⋯ Modic changes are common MRI findings in patients with degenerative lumbar disc disease. We found evidence that Modic Type II changes may be less stable than previously assumed.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Cost-effectiveness of two self-care interventions to reduce disability associated with back pain.
Two randomized, controlled trials. ⋯ Both the lay and psychologist interventions were associated with modest improvements in outcomes but with somewhat higher costs compared to usual care.