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Abstract Background/objective Fibromyalgia is a non-inflammatory syndrome characterized by generalized muscle pain, with other symptoms. Numerous forms of physical training for this population have been studied through high-quality randomized clinical trials involving strength, flexibility, aerobic conditioning and multicomponent exercise interventions. This research evaluated the effectiveness of a functional exercise program at reducing pain, improving functional capacity, increasing muscle strength as well as improving flexibility, balance and quality of life in individuals with fibromyalgia. Methods Eighty-two women with fibromyalgia were randomized into two groups. The functional exercise group performed functional exercises in 45-minute sessions twice per week for 14 weeks. The stretching exercise group performed flexibility exercises with the same duration and frequency. Outcome measures were: visual analog scale for widespread pain; Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire for health-related quality of life; Timed Up and Go test for functional performance; one-repetition maximum for muscle strength, Sit and Reach test on Wells bench for flexibility; Berg Balance Scale for balance; SF-36 for general quality of life. Results After the intervention, the functional exercise group had a statistically significant reduction in pain (interaction p = 0.002), and improvement in health-related quality of life measured by the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (interaction p

Abstract Objective This study aims to evaluate the effect of functional versus resistance exercise training on the functional capacity and quality of life of psoriatic arthritis patients. Methods Forty-one psoriatic arthritis patients (18 to 65 years old) were randomized into two groups: functional training group and resistance exercise group. The functional training group underwent functional exercises with elastic band and the functional training group underwent machine resistance exercise twice a week for 12 weeks. Outcome measures were: The Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) and Health Assessment Questionnaire for the Spondyloarthropathies (HAQ-S) for functional capacity and functional status, one-repetition maximum test for muscle strength, the Short Form 36 health survey questionnaire (SF-36) for quality of life, and the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) and the Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS-28) for disease activity. Analyzes were performed by a blinded evaluator at baseline (T0), six (T6) and twelve (T12) weeks after the beginning of the exercise. Results At baseline, the groups were homogeneous in the clinical and demographic characteristics. There was a statistical intra-group improvement for both groups in the BASFI, BASDAI, HAQ-s, and DAS-28. In the quality-of-life assessment, both groups showed statistical intra-group improvements for all domains except the “emotional aspect” domain in the resistance exercise group. In the muscle strength, there was a statistical improvement for all exercises in both groups, except for the “alternate biceps (bilateral)” exercise. Conclusion Functional training and resistance exercise are similarly effective in improving functional capacity, functional status, disease activity, general quality of life, and muscle strength in patients with psoriatic arthritis. Trial registration : ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04304326. Registered 11 March 2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04304326?term=NCT04304326&draw=2&rank=1 .

Abstract Background The Functional Index for Hand Osteoarthritis (FIHOA) is a simple, reliable, and reproducible specific instrument to evaluate hand OA that can be applied both in clinical practice and research protocols. In order to be used in Brazil, FIHOA has to be translated into Portuguese, culturally adapted and have the reliability of the translated FIHOA version tested, which is the purpose of this study. Methods The FIHOA was translated into Brazilian Portuguese and administered to 68 patients with hand OA recruited between May 2019 and February 2020. The test-retest was applied to 32 patients and the reliability was assessed using Spearman’s correlation coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The internal consistency reliability was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha. External construction validity was assessed using the Spearman’s correlation test between FIHOA and pain, assessed with a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the Cochin Hand Functional Scale (CHFS) and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). Results The 30 participants that initially answered the translated version of the FiHOA did not report difficulties in understanding or interpreting the translated version. The test-retest reliability for the total score was strong (r = 0.86; ICC = 0.89). Mean differences (1.37 ± 0.68) using Bland Altman’s analysis did not significantly differ from zero and no systematic bias was observed. Cronbach’s alpha was also high (0.89) suggesting a strong internal coherence in the test items. There were also correlations between FIHOA and the CHFS (r = 0.88), HAQ (r = 0.64) and pain in the hands both at rest (r = 0.55) and in motion (r = 0.44). Conclusion The translation of the FIHOA into Brazilian Portuguese proved a valid instrument for measuring the functional capacity of patients with hand OA who understand Brazilian Portuguese.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of surgery for the management of patients with symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis. Methods Sixty-three patients with lumbar canal stenosis were randomized into two groups: the intervention group (IG) and control group (CG). IG patients underwent surgery and both groups participated in the same physical therapy program twice a week for a period of 12 weeks and were followed up at 1 year. The primary endpoint was visual analogue scale for pain, and the secondary endpoints were function (6-min walk test, Roland Morris and Oswestry questionnaires), quality of life (SF-36 questionnaire) and satisfaction with treatment (Likert scale). Results No significant difference between groups was observed for pain over time (p = 0.145). Significant differences between groups, in favor of the IG, were observed for the Oswestry score (p = 0.006) and vitality domain score of the SF-36 (p = 0.047). Function in the Roland Morris and 6-min walk test and the role of the physical domain of SF-36 also showed significant differences between the groups; however, these differences occurred due to a worsening of the IG in the short term, and the medium-term. The Likert scale demonstrated greater satisfaction with the IG treatment compared to control group. Conclusions Lumbar stenosis surgery did not improve pain in short and medium terms. Function and vitality were better in the group that underwent surgery in the medium term, and patients were more satisfied with the surgical treatment. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov ( NCT02879461 ).

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Self-efficacy refers to one’s belief in one’s ability to organize, perform actions and face challenges in order to achieve goals and motivation. High self-efficacy improves disease coping and adherence to treatment among patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The objective of this study was to translate, culturally adapt and test the reproducibility of the 8-item Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale (ASES-8) questionnaire for use in Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: Validation study conducted in university outpatient clinics. METHODS: The questionnaire was translated into Brazilian Portuguese and then back-translated into English. The final version in Portuguese was tested on 30 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and was shown to be understandable and culturally adapted. A further 32 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were evaluated three times using the questionnaire. On the first occasion, two evaluators applied the questionnaire to check inter-evaluator reproducibility. After 15 days, one of the evaluators reassessed the patients to verify intra-evaluator reproducibility. At the first assessment, to test the construct validity of ASES-8, the Numerical Pain Scale, Health Assessment Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory and Short Form-36 questionnaire were also applied to all the patients. RESULTS: The inter and intra-evaluator correlation coefficients for ASES-8 were high. Cronbach’s alpha was higher than 0.90 for the questionnaire, indicating excellent internal consistency. There were moderate correlations between ASES-8 and most of the instruments tested, indicating good construct validity. CONCLUSION: ASES-8 was translated and adapted to the Portuguese language for Brazil. This instrument is valid, reproducible and reliable for evaluating self-efficacy among patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Abstract Introduction Musculoskeletal pain is a constant complaint in pediatric practice. The pain may be related to a number of organic diseases and / or be part of the amplified musculoskeletal pain syndromes. Idiopathic musculoskeletal pain (IMSP) is defined as the presence of intermittent pain in three or more body regions for at least three months, excluding organic diseases that could explain the symptoms. Objective To study the gait of children and adolescents with IMSP by dynamic baropodometry. Methodology Thirty-two patients with IMSP and 32 healthy controls, matched by age, sex, social class, and body mass index (BMI) were enrolled. All were evaluated for pain intensity through the visual analogue scale (VAS) and gait evaluation using dynamic baropodometry. Results The mean age of the IMSP group was 13.6 years (SD = 2.1, range 9.8–16.9) and of the control group was 13.5 years (SD = 2.0, range 9.6–16.5). The mean pain scale was 5.4 cm in the IMSP group and 0 cm in the control group (p

RESUMO A artrite reumatoide (AR) é uma doença inflamatória sistêmica, crônica, que acomete preferencialmente a membrana sinovial das articulações. Dentre as qualidades de aptidão física que podem ser reduzidas em indivíduos com AR merece destaque a força muscular, que está diretamente relacionada à capacidade de realização de todas as atividades da vida diária, desde as mais simples até as mais complexas. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a força muscular de membros inferiores de mulheres com AR. Métodos: 17 voluntárias com AR (das classes funcionais I, II e III) e 17 sem a doença, com idade média de 54,7+6,63 anos, foram submetidas ao teste de uma repetição máxima para avaliar a força muscular de flexores e extensores de joelho e de abdutores e adutores de quadril. Utilizou-se o teste τ para analisar os dados, sendo considerados estatisticamente significativos os níveis de α

Abstract Background Low back pain is particularly problematic among nursing professionals. Education is part of the rehabilitation process for low back pain and has been heavily studied. In parallel, gestural behaviors play an important role during the evaluation of the low back pain, especially while performing the activities of daily living. The aim of the present study was to evaluate gesture behavior and knowledge on LBP among nurses with and without LBP and correlate these factors with pain, physical functioning and quality of life. Methods An observational, controlled, cross-sectional study was carried out in 120 female nurses: 60 with LBP and 60 without LBP. The two groups were matched for age. The measures used for the evaluation were the Gesture Behavior Test, LBP Knowledge Questionnaire, Numerical Pain Scale for LBP, Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) to assess quality of life. Results Mean age in both groups was 31 years. In the group with LBP, the mean Numerical Pain Scale score was 5.6 cm and the mean score on the Roland Morris questionnaire was 2.7. No statistically differences between groups were found regarding the scores of the LBP Knowledge Questionnaire or Gesture Behavior Test (p = 0.531 and p = 0.292, respectively). Statistically lower scores were found in the group with LBP for the following SF-36 domains: physical functioning (p

Abstract Background Ultrasonography (US) studies carried out on joints of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients in clinical remission demonstrate the presence of subclinical synovitis. The significance of subclinical synovitis and the positive power Doppler (PD) signal on US in JIA in clinical remission is not well understood. The objectives of this study were to assess whether the changes detected by US in patients with JIA in clinical remission can predict disease flare and to evaluate factors associated with flare and joint damage over 30 months of follow-up. Methods A prospective study was performed with clinical and ultrasound evaluation in 34 joints of JIA patients in clinical remission. Clinical evaluation including physical exam, functional capacity and inflammatory markers was performed at baseline and every six months thereafter, for a total period of 30 months. US evaluation included presence of synovitis, PD signal and erosion at baseline and every 12 months thereafter. Subclinical synovitis was defined when there was synovitis with or without positive PD signal in US joints of patients in clinical remission. Flare was defined as any joint presenting clinical arthritis requiring therapy modification. Results We evaluated a total of 35 patients, 28 (80%) girls, 14 (40%) persistent oligoarticular subtype, 12 (34.3%) oligoarticular extended and 9 (25.7%) polyarticular and 26 (74.3%) in remission on medication. Twenty (57.1%) patients flared. The risk of flare was five times higher in patients with positive PD signal and 14 times higher in patients in remission on medication. Regarding the assessment of joints after 6 months and 12 months of US evaluation, 70/3162 (2.2%) joints and 80/2108 (3.8%) joints flared, respectively. Joints with subclinical synovitis with positive PD signal flared more after 6 and 12 months. Twenty five of 2108 (1.2%) joints showed erosion over time. Joints with subclinical synovitis with or without positive PD signal showed more erosion. Conclusions Patients in remission on medication with subclinical synovitis with positive PD signal on US have a higher risk of flare, therefore they should be monitored closely during treatment. In the same way, joints with subclinical synovitis with or without positive PD signal should be monitored due to the risk of flare and joint damage.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the ultrasonographic findings of entheses in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients with those of healthy control individuals and to assess the ability of ultrasound (US) to identify aspects related to the disease. METHODS: A cross-sectional study involving 50 patients with AS and 30 healthy controls was performed. Clinical assessment included the use of a visual analog scale for pain, assessment of swelling of the enthesis, global assessments for patients and physician, use of a disease activity index, mobility and dysfunctional indices, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and clinical enthesitis index. US was performed for the following entheses by two experienced musculoskeletal radiologists: brachial triceps, distal quadriceps, proximal and distal patellar tendons, calcaneal tendon, and plantar fascia; the total and subitems of the Madrid Sonographic Enthesitis Index were used for evaluations. RESULTS: Comparison between groups showed a statistically significant difference with worse scores in AS patients, with bone erosion of the calcaneal enthesis and bone erosion and thickening of the plantar fascia. The odds ratio for thickening of the plantar fascia in the AS group was 3.47, according to logistic regression analysis. The AS group also had worse scores regarding the presence of calcification in the quadriceps enthesis, with a fivefold increased risk. CONCLUSION: US analysis showed that only entheses of the foot and quadriceps were able to differentiate AS patients from healthy individuals.

RESUMOIntroduçãoO pé e o tornozelo na artrite reumatoide passam por sinovite altamente destrutiva, com perda de força muscular.ObjetivoAvaliar a força muscular do tornozelo de pacientes com artrite reumatoide com base em parâmetros da dinamometria isocinética.Materiais e métodosForam estudados 30 pacientes com diagnóstico de artrite reumatoide. O estudo envolveu 30 indivíduos saudáveis (grupo controle) pareados por idade, sexo, etnia, índice de massa corporal e dominância de membro inferior. Todos os indivíduos foram submetidos a avaliação da flexão dorsal, flexão plantar, inversão e eversão com o dinamômetro isocinético Cybex Norm. As variáveis foram comparadas entre os grupos artrite reumatoide e controle e entre os tornozelos direito e esquerdo. Foi determinada a relação de força muscular flexores dorsais/flexores plantares e inversores/eversores.ResultadosOs pacientes com artrite reumatoide tiveram resultados estatisticamente piores no teste de dinamometria isocinética para todos os movimentos do tornozelo. A relação de força muscular entre flexores dorsais e flexores plantares foi diferente nos dois grupos. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas na relação entre inversores e eversores. Nos dois grupos, os músculos flexores plantares eram estatisticamente mais fortes do que os flexores dorsais.ConclusãoOs pacientes com artrite reumatoide têm pior desempenho na dinamometria isocinética em todos os movimentos do tornozelo do que os indivíduos do grupo controle. Foram observados resultados semelhantes no teste isocinético para o lado direito e esquerdo, em ambos os grupos, com poucas exceções. A avaliação isocinética não representou risco adicional, como dor importante ou atividade inflamatória, em pacientes com artrite reumatoide.

Objetivos: Identificar fatores preditivos de resposta à infiltração intra-articular (IIA) com triancinolona hexacetonida (TH). Métodos: Este estudo foi realizado em pacientes de artrite reumatóide (AR) (segundo critérios do American College of Rheumatology) submetidos à IIA (infiltração mono, pauci ou poliarticular). Avaliação: Um observador “cego” avaliou prospectivamente as articulações uma semana (T1), quatro semanas (T4), 12 semanas (T12) e 24 semanas (T24) após IIA. As medidas de desfecho foram Escala Visual Analógica (0-10 cm) em repouso, em movimento e para articulações edemaciadas. As variáveis clínicas e demográficas e aquelas relacionadas à infiltração no início do estudo foram analisadas de acordo com a resposta à IIA. Resultados: Foram estudados 289 pacientes com AR (635 articulações) com média de idade de 48,7 (± 10,68) anos; 48,5% eram caucasianos, EVA para dor global = 6,52 (± 1,73). Na análise univariada, as variáveis relativas às melhores respostas em seguida à IIA (melhora >70%) foram: “IIA no cotovelo e metacarpofalangeanas (MCF)” e “classe funcional II”. Na análise multivariada, “homens” e “não brancos” foram os preditores com melhor resposta à IIA na T4, enquanto “IIA no cotovelo e MCF”, “infiltração poliarticular”, “uso de metotrexato” e “dose total maior de TH” obtiveram a melhor resposta na T24. Conclusão: Foram identificados diversos fatores preditivos de boa resposta à IIA em pacientes com AR. Os preditores de melhor resposta para IIA de TH em longo prazo foram “aplicar IIA no cotovelo e MCF” e “aplicar infiltração poliarticular”.

Objetivo Quantificar a modificação da capacidade funcional em um período de três anos em um grupo de pacientes com artrite reumatoide (AR), utilizando os inventários HAQ e EPM-ROM. Métodos Quarenta pacientes com AR em tratamento com metotrexato (MTX) como fármaco antirreumático modificador da doença (DMARD) foram acompanhados por até três anos. O estado funcional foi avaliado no início e no final do período por HAQ e EPM-ROM. Resultados Trinta e dois pacientes foram recuperados, com escore HAQ inicial de 1,14 ± 0,49 (média ± DP) e EPM-ROM de 5,8 ± 2,75. Após um período médio de três anos, o HAQ foi de 1,13 ± 0,49 e EPM-ROM em 6,81 ± 3,66. No subgrupo de sete pacientes submetidos a cirurgia ortopédica, o HAQ diminuiu de 0,84 ± 0,72 para 1,64 ± 0,56; e o EPM-ROM, de 5,8 ± 1,80 para 8,3 ± 0,74. No subgrupo de pacientes não operados, o HAQ variou de 1,2 ± 0,45 para 1,07 ± 0,70; e o EPM-ROM, de 5,7 ± 3,06 para 6,4 ± 3,90. Conclusão Em um grupo de pacientes com AR medicados apenas com MTX como DMARD, houve pouca mudança nas pontuações HAQ e EPM-ROM durante o período médio de três anos. Observou-se agravamento da capacidade funcional no grupo de pacientes operados, em comparação com os não operados. Este fato nos alerta para a necessidade do uso de esquemas terapêuticos mais abrangentes e de maior disponibilidade de cirurgias musculoesqueléticas, em tempo hábil, em pacientes com AR.

INTRODUCTION: Systemic sclerosis is a relatively rare connective tissue disorder characterized by severe and progressive fibrosis of the skin. Due to the current lack of available information on this subject, the aim of the present study was to assess light touch sensations in the hands of patients with systemic sclerosis. METHODS: We completed a cross-sectional comparative study. Light touch sensations were evaluated in 30 individuals, including 15 patients with systemic sclerosis who exhibited changes in the dermis of their hands without loss of the distal phalanx and 15 subjects who did not exhibit changes in the upper limbs (control group). The groups were age- and sex-matched. Tactile sensory evaluations were performed using the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test and the two-point discrimination test. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were found between groups in the monofilament test. The study group had lower scores across all points of the hand when compared with the control group. Differences were also found when dominant and non-dominant hands were compared (p

OBJETIVOS: Comparar a curto prazo (04 semanas) a efetividade das infiltrações intra-articulares (IIA) guiadas por fluoroscopia (FC) e ultrassom (US) em pacientes com enfermidades reumáticas. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo controlado e prospectivo em pacientes portadores de doenças reumáticas captados dos ambulatórios da Disciplina de Reumatologia da Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Brasil. Critério de inclusão: adultos com indicação de IIA com corticosteróide por sinovite refratária. Todos os pacientes forma infiltrados com hexacetonide triancinolona (20 mg/mL) com doses variáveis, de acordo com a articulação estudada. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 71 pacientes (52 mulheres; 44 brancos), portadores de enfermidades reumáticas variadas. A média de idade era 51,9 ± 13 anos e 47 deles (66,2%) faziam uso de drogas modificadora do curso da doença (DMARD). Na análise global da amostra (71 pacientes) e na subanálise coxofemoral (23 pacientes), observou-se melhora estatística (p < 0,001) em ambos os grupos quanto à EVA de dor. Na análise global observou-se aumento significativo da flexão articular (p < 0,001) e um Δ de flexão maior a favor do grupo guiado por FC. A avaliação de melhora segundo Likert Scale mostrou diferença significativa (p < 0,05) entre os grupos na avaliação global, nas proporções inalterado e melhor, a favor do grupo guiado por US. Não foi observada diferença estatisticamente significante entre os grupos para qualquer outra variável. CONCLUSÃO: A IIA guiada por imagem melhorou a dor regional, a curto prazo, relacionada à sinovite de vários tipos de articulações. Para a grande maioria das variáveis avaliadas não houve diferença entre a efetividade da IIA guiada por US ou FC.

Avaliar os efeitos do treinamento aeróbico e do alongamento sobre os níveis séricos de serotonina (5-HT) e seu principal metabólito ácido 5-hidroxiindolacético (5-HIAA). Foram randomizadas 22 mulheres com fibromialgia (FM) em uma de duas modalidades de exercício (exercício aeróbico de caminhada ou exercício de alongamento) a serem realizadas três vezes por semana, por 20 semanas. Os níveis séricos de 5-HT e 5-HIAA foram avaliados antes e após o programa de exercícios por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE) com detecção colorimétrica. A análise de grupo (pré-pós) mostrou que os níveis séricos de 5-HT e 5-HIAA mudaram significativamente no grupo aeróbico durante o período de 20 semanas de terapia (5-HT: p = 0,03; 5-HIAA: p = 0,003). No grupo alongamento, contudo, não foi observada qualquer alteração estatisticamente significativa (5-HT: p = 0,491; 5-HIAA: p = 0,549). Comparações estatísticas das medidas de laboratório entre os grupos constataram que o treinamento aeróbico foi superior ao alongamento, aumentando significativamente os níveis de 5-HIAA (teste F - 6,61; p = 0,01); porém, a diferença média entre os grupos a respeito dos níveis de 5-HT não atendeu aos critérios de relevância (teste F = 3,42; p = 0,08). O treinamento aeróbico aumenta os níveis de 5-HIAA e 5-HT e poderia explicar porque o exercício aeróbico pode melhorar os sintomas de pacientes com síndrome de fibromialgia mais que o exercício de alongamento.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os diferentes instrumentos de medida usados em pacientes com fibromialgia. PACIENTES E MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 60 indivíduos que participaram de um ensaio clínico de corte transversal comparando os efeitos de exercícios realizados na água e exercícios realizados em solo, por meio dos questionários Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) para avaliar o impacto da doença, The Medical Outcomes Study 36 item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) para avaliação da qualidade de vida, Inventário Beck para avaliar o estado de depressão e escala visual analógica da dor (EVA). Esses questionários foram comparados aos resultados obtidos em uma escala transicional do tipo Likert, a Escala verbal de avaliação de mudança (EVAM), considerada como critério de mudança na avaliação dos outros instrumentos. RESULTADOS: O coeficiente de Spearman foi usado para estudar a correlação entre a medida EVAM e os outros instrumentos em dois momentos (T1 e T2). Em T1 houve correlação moderada entre EVAM e EVA (r = 0,49), EVAM e FIQ (r = 0,41) e correlação negativa entre EVAM e os domínios referentes a dor (r = -0,49), estado geral (r = -0,55) e componente físico (r = -0,42) do SF-36. Em T2, apenas o domínio vitalidade do SF-36 mostrou correlação negativa com EVAM, de valor fraco (r = -0,27). CONCLUSÃO: Considerando-se a EVAM como padrão ouro, nenhum dos instrumentos avaliados conseguiu captar, de maneira ótima, mudança no estado de saúde do paciente com fibromialgia.OBJECTIVE: To assess the different measure instruments used for patients with fibromyalgia. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This study assessed 60 individuals participating in a clinical trial of cross-sectional cohort comparing the effects of exercises performed in water and on land. The following instruments were used: the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) to assess the impact of the disease; the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) to assess quality of life; the Beck Depression Inventory to assess depression; and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of pain. Those questionnaires were compared with the results obtained in a transitional Likert-type scale, the verbal scale for assessing change (VSAC), considered as a criterion of change in the assessment of other instruments. RESULTS: The Spearman coefficient was used to study the correlation between the VSAC measure and the other instruments at two occasions (T1 and T2). At T1, a moderate correlation was observed between VSAC and VAS (r = 0.49), and between VSAC and FIQ (r = 0.41), and a negative correlation was observed between VSAC and the SF-36 domains pain (r = -0.49) and general health perception (r = -0.55), and the SF-36 physical component (r = -0.42). At T2, only the SF-36 domain vitality showed a weak negative correlation with VSAC (r = -0.27). CONCLUSION: Considering VSAC as gold standard, none of the instruments assessed could optimally identify a change in the health status of patients with fibromyalgia.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a qualidade de vida, força e capacidade funcional em mulheres com fibromialgia (FM). PACIENTES E MÉTODOS: Estudo de corte transversal, realizado com 31 voluntárias com idade entre 35 e 60 anos, pareadas em dois grupos, 16 com FM e 15 grupo-controle. Os dois grupos foram submetidos à avaliação da força de uma repetição máxima (1RM) de flexão e extensão de joelhos, aplicação do questionário de qualidade de vida SF-36, teste de caminhada de 6 minutos (TC6) e avaliações de forças de pinças (trípode, polpa a polpa e de chave) e de preensão palmar. RESULTADOS: Houve diferença significativa entre os grupos para: força de preensão palmar, força de pinça polpa-a-polpa e trípode de ambas as mãos; e para o teste de uma repetição máxima de flexores e extensores dos joelhos, em ambos os membros (P < 0,05). Somente a pinça de chave não apresentou diferenças estatísticas entre os grupos para ambos os membros (P > 0,05). O TC6 também mostrou uma diferença estatística entre os grupos (P < 0,01). Já no SF-36, observou-se que mulheres com FM têm redução da capacidade funcional, aumento de dor e piora do estado geral de saúde (P < 0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados revelam redução da força muscular em membros superiores e inferiores, redução na distância percorrida durante o TC6 em mulheres com FM e também da qualidade de vidaOBJECTIVE: To assess the quality of life, muscle strength and functional capacity in women with fibromyalgia (FM). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study carried out with 31 female volunteers (age range, 35 to 60 years), paired in two groups (16 with FM, and 15 in the control group). Both groups underwent the following assessments: one-repetition maximum (1RM) of knee flexors and extensors; quality of life (application of the SF-36 questionnaire); 6-minute walk test (6MWT); pinch strengths (tripod, pulp-to-pulp, and key) and handgrip strength. RESULTS: A significant difference between the groups was observed in the following variables: handgrip strength; pulp-to-pulp and tripod pinch strength of both hands; and the 1RM test of knee flexors and extensors in both limbs (P < 0.05). Only the key pinch showed no statistical difference between groups for both limbs (P > 0.05). The 6MWT also showed a statistical difference between the groups (P < 0.01). The SF-36 showed that women with FM have reduced functional capacity, increased bodily pain, and worsened general health status (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The results revealed, in women with FM, a reduction in the following: muscle strength in the upper and lower limbs; the distance walked in the 6MWT; and quality of life

OBJECTIVE: To translate, to perform a cultural adaptation of and to test the reproducibility of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale questionnaire for Brazil. METHODS: First, the Cochin Hand Functional Scale questionnaire was translated into Portuguese and was then back-translated into French. These translations were reviewed by a committee to establish a Brazilian version of the questionnaire to be tested. The validity and reproducibility of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale questionnaire was evaluated. Patients of both sexes, who were aged 18 to 60 years and presented with rheumatoid arthritis affecting their hands, were interviewed. The patients were initially interviewed by two observers and were later interviewed by a single rater. First, the Visual Analogue Scale for hand pain, the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Disability questionnaire and the Health Assessment Questionnaire were administered. The third administration of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale was performed fifteen days after the first administration. Ninety patients were assessed in the present study. RESULTS: Two questions were modified as a result of the assessment of cultural equivalence. The Cronbach's alpha value for this assessment was 0.93. The intraclass intraobserver and interobserver correlation coefficients were 0.76 and 0.96, respectively. The Spearman's coefficient indicated that there was a low level of correlation between the Cochin Hand Functional Scale and the Visual Analogue Scale for pain (0.46) and that there was a moderate level of correlation of the Cochin Scale with the Health Assessment Questionnaire (0.66) and with the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (0.63). The average administration time for the Cochin Scale was three minutes. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian version of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale was successfully translated and adapted, and this version exhibited good internal consistency, reliability and construct validity.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the difference in isokinetic strength of hip muscles between patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) and matched healthy controls, and to establish the correlation between this isokinetic strength and pain and function in patients with knee OA. METHODS: 25 patients with a diagnosis of unilateral knee OA, 25 patients with bilateral knee OA, and 50 matched controls were evaluated using the visual analog scale for pain, knee Lequesne index, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities questionnaire and an isokinetic test. RESULTS: The groups were matched for age, gender and body mass index. The results of the isokinetic test revealed lower peak torque of the hip in patients with OA of the knee than in the control group for all movements studied. Strong correlations were found between the peak torque, visual analog scale and function. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with OA of the knee exhibit lower isokinetic strength in the hip muscles than healthy control subjects. Strengthening the muscles surrounding the hip joint may help to decrease pain in people with knee OA. Some correlations between pain/function and peak torque were found.

INTRODUÇÃO: O treinamento resistido progressivo tem sido sugerido como uma modalidade terapêutica que tenta promover uma padronização da prescrição de exercícios em fisioterapia, além de otimizar os resultados da terapia. OBJETIVO: Revisar os estudos que utilizaram o treinamento resistido progressivo em doenças musculoesqueléticas crônicas e demonstrar a importância da inclusão deste tipo de treinamento na reabilitação destas doenças. FONTE DE DADOS: A pesquisa foi realizada através dos bancos de dados Pubmed, Medline e Lilacs sem restrições a datas e/ou idiomas. REVISÃO: Já se encontra bem fundamentada a importância da aplicação de exercícios terapêuticos em fisioterapia devido aos inúmeros benefícios atribuídos a esta modalidade terapêutica. Apesar de comprovadamente eficazes, os exercícios de alta intensidade ainda não são prescritos rotineiramente e esta prescrição geralmente não é feita de maneira padronizada, não nos permitindo chegar a um consenso quanto ao tipo de fortalecimento utilizado, o cálculo da carga e a sua progressão. O treinamento resistido progressivo é realizado através do aumento gradual de carga durante o período de treinamento. O número de repetições que cada indivíduo pode completar depende do cálculo da repetição máxima. CONCLUSÃO: Baseando-se nos achados desta revisão, recomenda-se o uso de exercícios resistidos progressivos como complemento dos exercícios tradicionais utilizados na reabilitação de doenças musculoesqueléticas crônicas para que seja possível padronizar os protocolos de atendimento, controlando e adequando individualmente a carga, e otimizar os resultados do treinamento. No entanto, vale ressaltar que novos estudos são necessários para que se chegue a conclusões mais fidedignas.INTRODUCTION: Progressive resistance training has been suggested as a therapeutic modality that attempts to promote the standardization of the prescription of physical exercises in physical therapy, besides optimizing the results of the treatment. OBJECTIVE: To review studies that used progressive resistance training in chronic musculoskeletal diseases and to demonstrate the importance of including this type of training in the rehabilitation of those diseases. SOURCE OF THE DATA: Pubmed, Medline, and Lilacs databases were reviewed without restrictions of date and/or language. REVIEW: Due to the countless benefits attributed to this treatment modality, the importance of exercises in physical therapy has been well documented. Despite the proven efficacy, high-intensity exercises are not routinely prescribed, and this prescription is usually not standardized, which does not allow a consensus on the type of strengthening used, as well as load calculation and progression. Progressive resistance training implies the gradual increase in load during the training period. The number of repetitions that each individual can complete depends on the calculation of the maximal repetition. CONCLUSION: Based on the findings of this review, the use of progressive resistance training to complement traditional exercises used in rehabilitation of chronic musculoskeletal diseases is recommended in order to standardize treatment protocols, with adequate control of individual load, and to optimize training results. However, it should be emphasized that further studies are necessary for more reliable conclusions.

O elastofibroma dorsal, pseudotumor de partes moles com crescimento lento, tem sido cada vez mais lembrado no diagnóstico diferencial de dor escapular crônica, sendo também diagnosticado incidentalmente em exames de diagnóstico por imagem de rotina. Abordamos aqui o diagnóstico por imagem que pode começar pela radiografia convencional, mas é melhor caracterizado pelo ultrassom e pela ressonância magnética, sendo esta última a modalidade de escolha.Elastofibroma dorsi, a slow-growing, soft-tissue pseudotumor has been more and more remembered in the differential diagnosis of chronic scapular pain. It has also been incidentally diagnosed in routine diagnostic imaging tests. Our approach here is the imaging diagnosis, which can start with the conventional X-ray, but is better characterized by the ultrasound and the magnetic resonance, the latter being the modality of choice.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a Brazilian version of the gesture behavior test (GBT) for patients with chronic low back pain. METHODS: Translation of GBT into Portuguese was performed by a rheumatologist fluent in the language of origin (French) and skilled in the validation of questionnaires. This translated version was back-translated into French by a native-speaking teacher of the language. The two translators then created a final consensual version in Portuguese. Cultural adaptation was carried out by two rheumatologists, one educated patient and the native-speaking French teacher. Thirty patients with chronic low back pain and fifteen healthcare professionals involved in the education of patients with low back pain through back schools (gold-standard) were evaluated. Reproducibility was initially tested by two observers (inter-observer); the procedures were also videotaped for later evaluation by one of the observers (intra-observer). For construct validation, we compared patients' scores against the scores of the healthcare professionals. RESULTS: Modifications were made to the GBT for cultural reasons. The Spearman's correlation coefficient and the intra-class coefficient, which was employed to measure reproducibility, ranged between 0.87 and 0.99 and 0.94 to 0.99, respectively (p < 0.01). With regard to validation, the Mann-Whitney test revealed a significant difference (p < 0.01) between the averages for healthcare professionals (26.60; SD 2.79) and patients (16.30; SD 6.39). There was a positive correlation between the GBT score and the score on the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (r= 0.47). CONCLUSIONS: The Brazilian version of the GBT proved to be a reproducible and valid instrument. In addition, according to the questionnaire results, more disabled patients exhibited more protective gesture behavior related to low-back.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to develop and validate a questionnaire on specific knowledge about low back pain entitled "The Low Back Pain Knowledge Questionnaire". INTRODUCTION: There is a need for instruments to assess patient knowledge regarding chronic illness. Such methods can contribute to the education of patients. METHODS: The Low Back Pain Knowledge Questionnaire was developed through five focus groups. The questionnaire was distributed to 50 patients to assess their comprehension of the terms. To assess the reproducibility, 20 patients were surveyed by two different interviewers on the same day and twice by a single interviewer with a one-to-two week interval. For the construct validation, the Low Back Pain Knowledge Questionnaire was given to 20 healthcare professionals with knowledge on low back pain and 20 patients to determine whether the questionnaire would discriminate between the two different populations. To assess the sensitivity of the questionnaire to changes in the knowledge level of the patients, it was given to 60 patients who were randomly assigned to the Intervention Group and the Control Group. The Intervention Group answered the questionnaire both before and after attending a chronic back pain educational program (back school), whereas the Control Group answered the questionnaire twice with an interval of one month and no educational intervention. RESULTS: The focus groups generated a questionnaire with 16 items. The Spearman's correlation coefficient and the intra-class correlation coefficients ranged from 0.61 to 0.95 in the assessments of the intra-observer and inter-observer reproducibility (p< 0.01). In the construct validation, the healthcare professionals and patients showed statistically different scores (p< 0.001). In the phase regarding the sensitivity to change, the Intervention Group exhibited a significant increase in their specific knowledge over the Control Group (p< 0.001). CONCLUSION: The Low Back Pain Knowledge Questionnaire was validated and proved to be reproducible, valid and sensitive to changes in patient knowledge.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effectiveness of Samarium153-particulate hydroxyapatite radiation synovectomy in rheumatoid arthritis patients with chronic knee synovitis. METHODS: Fifty-eight rheumatoid arthritis patients (60 knees) with chronic knee synovitis participated in a controlled double-blinded trial. Patients were randomized to receive either an intra-articular injection with 40 mg triamcinolone hexacetonide alone (TH group) or 40 mg triamcinolone hexacetonide combined with 15 mCi Samarium153-particulate hydroxyapatite (Sm/TH group). Blinded examination at baseline (T0) and at 1 (T1), 4 (T4), 12 (T12), 32 (T32), and 48 (T48) weeks post-intervention were performed on all patients and included a visual analog scale for joint pain and swelling as well as data on morning stiffness, flexion, extension, knee circumference, Likert scale of improvement, percentage of improvement, SF-36 generic quality of life questionnaire, Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), Lequesne index, use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or oral corticosteroids, events and adverse effects, calls to the physician, and hospital visits. RESULTS: The sample was homogeneous at baseline, and there were no withdrawals. Improvement was observed in both groups in relation to T0, but no statistically significant differences between groups were observed regarding all variables at the time points studied. The Sm/TH group exhibited more adverse effects at T1 (p

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o equilíbrio funcional e a qualidade de vida em pacientes com espondilite anquilosante. TIPO DE ESTUDO: Corte transversal. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 60 indivíduos, sendo 30 com espondilite anquilosante (EA) e 30 saudáveis, por meio da versão brasileira da escala de equilíbrio de Berg, questionário SF-36 para avaliação da qualidade de vida e escala visual analógica da dor (EVA). RESULTADOS: O escore da escala de Berg foi, respectivamente, para os grupos EA e controle de 48,83 e 55,5, com diferença estatisticamente significante. Houve correlação positiva entre a escala de Berg e a de EVA (r = 0,469) e entre esta escala e o domínio referente à capacidade funcional do SF-36 (r = 0,648). A EVA teve correlação negativa com o SF-36 nos seguintes domínios: capacidade funcional (r = -0,753), aspecto físico (r = -0,612), estado geral de saúde (r = -0,607), dor (r = -0,827) e vitalidade (r = -0,532). CONCLUSÃO: Os pacientes com EA possuem pior equilíbrio funcional, pior qualidade de vida e mais dor que indivíduos saudáveis. O pior equilíbrio correlacionou-se com pior capacidade funcional e dor.OBJECTIVE: To assess functional balance and quality of life among patients with ankylosing spondylitis. TYPE OF STUDY: Cross-sectional. METHODS: Sixty individuals were evaluated: 30 with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and 30 healthy individuals - using the Brazilian version of the Berg Balance Scale, SF-36 questionnaire for the assessment of quality of life and a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain. RESULTS: The score of the scale of Berg was respectively for groups EA and control of 48.83 and 55.5 with statistically significant difference. There was a positive correlation between the Berg Scale and the VAS (r = 0,469) and between this scale and the functional capacity domain of the SF-36 (r = 0,648). There was a negative correlation between the VAS and following domains of the SF-36: functional capacity (r = -0,753), physical aspects (r = -0,612), overall health (r = -0,607), pain (r = -0,827) and vitality (r = -0,532). CONCLUSION: Patients with AS exhibit worse functional balance, a poorer quality of life and more pain than healthy individuals. Poorer balance was correlated to pain and worse functional capacity.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the energy expenditure in patients with unilateral knee osteoarthritis while walking with canes of different lengths. METHODS: A quasi-experimental study (single-group) was carried out on thirty patients with unilateral knee osteoarthritis. An adjustable aluminum cane was used, and three different cane lengths were determined for each subject: C1 - length from the floor to the greater trochanter; C2 - length from the floor to the distal wrist crease; and C3 - length obtained by the formula: height x 0.45 + 0.87 m. Resting and walking heart rates were measured with a Polar hear rate meter. Walking speed was calculated by the time required for the patient to walk 10 m. Gait energy cost was estimated using the physiological cost index, and results were compared. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 25 women and five men (average age of 68 years). Statistically significant differences in physiological cost index measurements were observed between unassisted walking and assisted walking with a cane of any length (p

INTRODUÇÃO E OBJETIVOS: a artrite idiopática juvenil (AIJ) pode acarretar em seu curso clínico incapacidades físicas permanentes em crianças e adolescentes. Este estudo teve como objetivos a des-crição das diversas modalidades de reabilitação, desde a avaliação até a prescrição de exercícios, bem como a elaboração de um guia prático de reabilitação para pacientes com AIJ. FONTE DE DADOS: a pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados do Medline e do Lilacs. Na discussão dos diversos tópicos, foi considerada a experiência dos especialistas em reumatologia pediátrica e reabilitação do Lar Escola São Francisco e da Universidade Federal de São Paulo. RESUMO: os pacientes com AIJ podem apresentar dor e limitação da amplitude de movimento articular e conseqüente diminuição da capacidade física, com comprometimento das capacidades aeróbia e anaeróbia. Não só o comprometimento articular, mas as disfunções cardíacas e autonômicas colaboram nesse processo, tendo como conseqüência uma baixa capacidade de executar atividades esportivas e atividades de vida diárias (AVDs). O American College of Rheumatology recomenda 30 minutos de atividade com intensidade moderada de duas a três vezes por semana. A hidroterapia está relacionada a uma maior aderência ao tratamento, além de auxiliar na diminuição da percepção dolorosa e dificuldade apresentada na realização das AVDs. As outras modalidades de reabilitação, tais como massagem, educação, proteção articular, conservação de ener-gia e órteses, também são discutidas nesta revisão. CONCLUSÃO: há poucos estudos na literatura sobre reabilitação em crianças com AIJ, especialmente no que se refere a temas como prescrição adequada de exercícios, cargas, número de séries e repetições, bem como qual a melhor opção a ser utilizada - solo ou piscina. Acreditamos que mais estudos científicos são necessários para que possamos prescrever adequadamente os diversos tipos de exercícios.INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) may cause permanent physical disabilities in children and adolescents. This study aimed to describe the several kinds of rehabilitation procedures, ranging from evaluation to prescription of exercises, as well as the elaboration of a practical rehabilitation guide for JIA patients. SOURCES OF DATA: the research was based on data from Medline and Lilacs. The opinion of experts working on the Pediatric Rheumatology service from Lar Escola São Francisco and Universidade Federal de São Paulo was considered on the debate of several topics. SUMMARY: JIA patients may present pain and limitation of joint movement thereby leading to decrease in physical capacity, affecting both aerobic and anaerobic activities. In addition to the joint compromise, cardiac and autonomic dysfunctions collaborate on this process, impairing sport and everyday activities. The American College of Rheumatology recommends 30-minute activity with moderate intensity, two to three times weekly. Hydrotherapy is associated to treatment adherence, besides helping in decreasing pain perception and adding to cope with daily activities. Other rehabilitation modalities, such as massage, education, joint protection, energy conservation, and splints are also considered in the present review. CONCLUSION: there are few studies in the literature focusing on rehabilitation in children with JIA. Particularly, there is a lack of studies concerning aspects of adequate prescription of exercises, weight-bearing, number of series and repetitions, as well as the best choice regarding ground or water activity. We believe that additional information is needed in order to improve the physical care to these patients.

OBJETIVO: correlacionar o instrumento de avaliação de qualidade de vida específico para osteoporose, o Osteoporosis Assessment Questionnaire (OPAQ), com o instrumento genérico, o The Medical Outcomes Study 36 - Item Short Form Health Survery (SF-36). PACIENTES E MÉTODOS: estudo observacional de corte transversal que incluiu 40 mulheres acima de 60 anos, diagnosticadas com osteoporose. Houve um momento para avaliação e um único examinador. Para a análise estatística foram utilizados coeficiente correlação de Pearson e análise fatorial do OPAQ. RESUTADOS: houve correlação entre os domínios e componentes finais do SF-36 com os domínios do OPAQ. Evidenciou-se que os coeficientes mais altos foram entre o OPAQ Sintomas e os seguintes domínios do SF-36: dor (r=-0,6), aspectos sociais (r=-0,6%) e saúde mental (r=-0,5). Quase todos os aspectos do SF-36 se correlacionaram com o OPAQ Sintomas. E, ainda, por análise fatorial do OPAQ, observa-se que os seus 18 componentes representaram 63% de carga fatorial, ou seja, eles explicaram o valor total de impacto da osteoporose na qualidade de vida e agruparam-se em cinco fatores: fator 1 (mobilidade, cuidados próprios, independência e trabalho doméstico), fator 2 (flexibilidade, movimentação e sono), fator 3 (dor nas costas, dor relacionada à osteoporose, fadiga e humor), fator 4 (medo de cair, atividades sociais, apoio familiar e tensão) e fator 5 (andar-inclinar, imagem corporal e trabalho). CONCLUSÃO: foi encontrada a correlação esperada entre SF-36 e OPAQ, que é um instrumento de avaliação específico com capacidade para avaliar aspectos específicos e gerais da qualidade de vida nesta população.OBJECTIVE: to correlate the quality of life assessment instrument, specific to osteoporosis, OPAQ (Osteoporosis Assessment Questionnaire), with the generic instrument SF-36 (Item Short Form Health Survey). PATIENTS AND METHODS: the cross sectional observational study included 40 female patients older than 60 years with osteoporosis. A single assessment was always conducted by the same evaluator. For the statistics analisys the Pearson’s coefficient and the factor analysis to OPAQ were used. RESULTS: there was a correlation between the domains and final components of SF-36 with the domains of OPAQ. The higher coefficients were between the OPAQ Symptoms and some domains of SF-36: pain (r=-0,6), social aspects (r=-0,6) and mental health (r=-0,5). Almost every aspect of SF-36 was correlated with the OPAQ Symptoms. By factor analysis of OPAQ it was observed that the 18 components of OPAQ represented 63% of factor load, and they explained the total account of osteoporosis’s impact in the quality of life and were grouped in five factors: factor 1 (mobility, self-care, independence and household tasks), factor 2 (flexibility, transfers and sleep), factor 3 (backache, pain related to osteoporosis, fatigue and mood), factor 4 (fear of fall, social activity, family support and tension) and factor 5 (walking and bending, body image and work). CONCLUSION: the expected correlation was achieved between SF-36 and OPAQ, wich is a specific assessment instrument capable of assessing particular and general aspects of the quality of life in patients with osteoporosis.

A vasculite testicular é uma manifestação extra-articular muito rara da artrite reumatoide (AR). Descrevemos o caso de um homem de 53 anos com diagnóstico de AR por oito anos, sem controle adequado da doença. O paciente desenvolveu vasculite reumatoide, manifestada por úlceras de membros inferiores e neuropatia periférica. Apresentou ainda meningite neutrofílica aguda, tendo sido tratado com antibióticos e posterior pulsoterapia endovenosa com metilprednisolona (500 mg/dia) por três dias, seguida de ciclofosfamida (2 mg/kg/ dia) e prednisona orais. O paciente apresentou melhora do quadro, mas 15 dias após a alta hospitalar, houve reativação da meningite bacteriana. O paciente foi reinternado e tratado novamente com antibióticos. Três dias depois da segunda admissão hospitalar, o paciente apresentou dor, aumento de volume do testículo esquerdo e posteriormente gangrena. Foi realizada orquiectomia unilateral e o exame anatomopatológico revelou vasculite linfocítica. O paciente faleceu dois dias após a cirurgia devido a pneumonia aspirativa. Esse caso ilustra a vasculite testicular como uma manifestação rara e grave da vasculite reumatoide.