Modern rheumatology
-
We investigated body image in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), correlating it with self-esteem, function, and quality of life. Forty-three RA patients and 39 control individuals from the community between 18 and 70 years of age and paired for gender, age, and body mass index (BMI) were evaluated. Patients were assessed for body image [Body Dysmorphic Disorder Examination (BDDE)], self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), function [Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ)] and quality of life [Short Form-36 (SF-36)]. ⋯ These scores had a direct correlation with body image scores (p < 0.001). Individuals with RA had a worse body image than individuals without this condition. Body image was directly correlated with self-esteem, function, and quality of life.
-
Modern rheumatology · Oct 2010
High molecular weight hyaluronic acid relieved joint pain and prevented the progression of cartilage degeneration in a rabbit osteoarthritis model after onset of arthritis.
We examined the therapeutic effect of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HA) on the progression of joint pain and cartilage degeneration in a rabbit osteoarthritis (OA) model. The OA model was induced by partial meniscectomy. In the time course study, cartilage degeneration was assessed at 3, 7 and 14 days after operation. ⋯ HA significantly inhibited cartilage degeneration, whereas LOX did not. HA also suppressed the production of MMP in joints. Treatment of HA after the onset of cartilage destruction and pain showed a cartilage protective effect as well as an analgesic effect.