Arthritis care and research : the official journal of the Arthritis Health Professions Association
-
Comparative Study
Management and care of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty: variations across different health care settings.
To examine variation in the process of care for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and to highlight the need for rigorous research into the ideal management of TKA. We hypothesize that variation in the process of care for TKA across and within health care systems is associated with identifiable financial and historical factors. ⋯ Our observations are consistent with the hypothesis that financial reimbursement schemes influence the management of TKA. Further research needs to be done to quantify effects of varying processes of care on the outcome of TKA surgery across different health care settings. This data would elucidate the optimal management of TKA using objective evidence rather than relying on financial incentives or the preservation of historical practices.
-
To compare an evidence-based clinical fibromyalgia program, referred to as Fibro-Fit, with results of controlled clinical trials. ⋯ Results suggest that Fibro-Fit was effective in improving physical impairments and function. Further investigation is required to refine the effective components of these programs and determine how modifiable factors can be used to improve outcomes.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
A randomized, controlled trial of exercise and education for individuals with fibromyalgia.
To evaluate the efficacy of a 6-week exercise and educational program for patients with fibromyalgia. ⋯ Short-term exercise and educational programs can produce immediate and sustained benefits for patients with fibromyalgia. The benefits of our program may be due to exercise or education since both interventions were given.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Spouse-assisted coping skills training in the management of knee pain in osteoarthritis: long-term followup results.
To evaluate the long-term effects of a spouse-assisted coping skills intervention in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knees, and to evaluate how pre- to posttreatment changes in marital adjustment and self-efficacy relate to long-term improvements in pain, psychological disability, physical disability, pain coping, and pain behavior. ⋯ These findings suggest that spouse-assisted CST can enhance self-efficacy and improve the coping abilities of OA patients in the long term. Individual differences in the long-term outcome of spouse-assisted CST were noted, with some patients (those showing increases in marital satisfaction and self-efficacy) showing much better outcomes than others.