Pathophysiology of Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome
This article utilized head and neck cancer as a model and highlights the resultant clinical sequelae of radiation fibrosis syndrome and current treatment paradigms.Recent FindingsRadiation therapy is a common modality utilized in the treatment of malignancy. Advances in the field of radiation oncology have curtailed radiation delivered to adjacent organs at risk.SummaryThe pathophysiology of radiation fibrosis syndrome is complex, involving multiple pathways characterized by microvascular injury and inflammatory mediators leading to progressive tissue fibrosis and sclerosis. Clinical manifestations vary depending on the ti...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - May 16, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

Evaluation and Management of Carpal Instability
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis paper sets out to review the past and current literature on the evaluation and management of the various types of carpal instability.Recent FindingsCarpal instability has many sub-types, and therefore, its evaluation and management widely differ. There are recent studies that indicate that while MRI and MR arthrography are the mainstays for evaluation, certain CT and radiographic measurements may be better at diagnosing scapholunate ligament tears. In addition, recent research has proposed multiple sonographic protocols in the evaluation of carpal ligament pathology. However, the comparison of...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - May 2, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

Platelet-Rich Plasma Versus Corticosteroid Injection in the Treatment of Arthropathic Chronic Low Back Pain: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
AbstractPurpose of ReviewLow back pain (LBP) is the leading cause of global disability. Recently, there has been an interest in using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to relieve pain and improve functional status in patients with chronic LBP. We performed a systematic review with meta-analysis to compare the clinical efficacy of PRP against corticosteroid for the treatment of LBP.Recent FindingsRecent randomized controlled trials have suggested that PRP injections may have additional benefit over corticosteroid injections for the treatment of LBP.SummaryIn our pooled analysis, the corticosteroid group was found to have reduced p...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - May 1, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

The Development of Modern Radiation Therapy
We describe the fundamentals of radiation therapy planning and administration as well as commonly utilized modern radiation therapy techniques. (Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports)
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - April 29, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

Correction to: On Application of Injection Procedures in the Management of Post-Breast Surgery Pain Syndrome
(Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports)
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - April 28, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

Dysphagia in Parkinson Disease: Part II —Current Treatment Options and Insights from Animal Research
AbstractPurpose of ReviewDysphagia is highly prevalent in Parkinson disease (PD) but is not typically identified nor treated until later in the disease process. This review summarizes current pharmacological, surgical, and behavioral treatments for PD-associated dysphagia and contributions from translational animal research.Recent FindingsSwallowing is a complex physiologic process controlled by multiple brain regions and neurotransmitter systems. As such, interventions that target nigrostriatal dopamine dysfunction have limited or detrimental effects on swallowing outcomes. Behavioral interventions can help target PD-asso...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - April 24, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) on Chronic Pain in Older Adults: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
This study is aimed to systematically review the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in the management of chronic musculoskeletal pain in older adults.Recent FindingsWhile there is no certain method of pain management for older adults, recent developments in electrical stimulation have received attention. The effectiveness of TENS on pain management, quality of life, and concurrent therapy including pharmaceuticals among the older population has generated controversy in the current literature.SummaryFollowing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) gui...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - April 21, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

The Current State and Future Directions of Swallowing Care in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
AbstractPurpose of ReviewDifficulty swallowing (dysphagia) is of great concern to patients with ALS as its complications can increase mortality and reduce the quality of life. This review aims to provide an overview of the recent developments and the current state of assessment, treatment, and management of dysphagia in ALS.Recent FindingsThe optimal timing of assessment, treatment, and management of dysphagia may be early in the ALS disease process, even before the dysphagia occurs. There is wide heterogeneity in SLP practice patterns for the management of dysphagia.SummaryDysphagia is common and debilitating; however, fo...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - April 18, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

Neuromuscular Complications of Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome
AbstractPurpose of ReviewRadiation fibrosis syndrome (RFS) can adversely affect the function and quality of life of cancer survivors. This paper summarizes the neuromuscular complications of RFS and common clinical manifestations in the patient groups most commonly affected including those treated for Hodgkin ’s lymphoma, head and neck cancer, and breast cancer.Recent FindingsA wide range of clinical sequelae can be seen in RFS including myelopathy, radiculopathy, plexopathy, neuropathy, myopathy, or any combinations of these disorders, a phenomenon termed “myelo-radiculo-plexo-neuro-myopathy. ” Shoulder dysfunction,...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - April 6, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

The Evaluation and Management of Visceral Complications in Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome Part 1
This study aims to inform rehabilitation clinicians of the visceral toxicities of radiation fibrosis syndrome and how to detect and diagnose these complications.Recent FindingsLatest research indicates that radiation toxicity is primarily related to radiation dose, patient co-morbidity, and concomitant use of chemotherapies and immunotherapies for the treatment of cancer. While cancer cells are the primary target, surrounding normal cells and tissues are also affected. Radiation toxicity is dose dependent, and tissue injury develops from inflammation that may progress to fibrosis. Thus, radiation dosing in cancer therapy i...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - March 28, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

Dysphagia in Parkinson Disease: Part I – Pathophysiology and Diagnostic Practices
AbstractPurpose of ReviewDysphagia affects the majority of individuals with Parkinson disease (PD) and is not typically diagnosed until later in disease progression. This review will cover the current understanding of PD pathophysiology, and provides an overview of dysphagia in PD including diagnostic practices, gaps in knowledge, and future directions.Recent FindingsMany non-motor and other motor signs of PD appear in the prodrome prior to the manifestation of hallmark signs and diagnosis. While dysphagia often presents already in the prodrome, it is not routinely addressed in standard neurology examinations.SummaryDyspha...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - March 28, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

Role of Conservative Treatment vs Surgical Treatment for Rotator Cuff Tears: A Narrative Review
AbstractPurpose of ReviewRotator cuff tear is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain and affects people of all ages. The purpose of this review is to discuss the role of conservative and surgical treatment in the management of rotator cuff tear injuries.Recent FindingsConservative means of treatment include oral medications, physical therapy, and injections. Newer injections are being seen used more often, such as prolotherapy, platelet-rich plasma, and stem cells. While conservative treatment still is generally the first-line treatment, surgery is considered the most definitive form of repair.SummaryConservative t...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - March 20, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

Embracing Complexity —the Role of Cancer Rehabilitation in Restoring and Maintaining Function and Quality of Life in Cancer Survivors with Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome
This article will discuss the importance of this evolution in the context of radiation late effects and serve as a call for the clinical and operational expansion of the field so that it can become a key component of comprehensive cancer care.Recent FindingsThe clinical and operational challenges inherent in cancer survivors with radiation late effects necessitate different thinking with respect to how rehabilitation professionals evaluate and manage patients as well as how our institutions equip these professionals to practice at the highest possible level.SummaryTo achieve its promise, the field of cancer rehabilitation ...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - March 18, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

Patellofemoral Syndrome: a Review of Diagnosis and Treatment
AbstractPurpose of ReviewPatellofemoral syndrome (PFS) is a common condition seen in people with anterior knee pain. This review explores patient presentations and exam maneuvers used for diagnosis, as well as established/up-and-coming treatment interventions.Recent FindingsPain reduction and prevention are the main goals for PFS as they negatively affect quality of life. Combination hip and knee exercises have been found to be most beneficial during therapy due to the multifactorial etiology of PFS. Combining exercise therapy with patellar taping has also shown a reduction in acute pain. Ultrasound may be used to evaluate...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - March 14, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research

Peroneus Tendon Disorders: Evaluation and Non-operative Management
AbstractPurpose of ReviewIn this narrative review, we describe the relevant anatomy, discuss the history and exam findings, detail the workup, and review the management of peroneal tendon disorders.Recent FindingsThe role of ultrasonography in the diagnosis and management of peroneal tendon disorders is evolving. The response to steroid injection appears to be better if symptom duration is less than 1  year. Newer therapies such as blood flow restriction show promise. Others, such as platelet-rich plasma injections, are not currently supported by the evidence. It remains unclear if footwear plays a role in injury risk and...
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - March 11, 2023 Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research