CLINICAL ASSESSMENT AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF THE SHOULDER OF PATIENTS WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY

Acta Ortop Bras, 2012 · DOI: · Published: September 1, 2012

Spinal Cord Injury Medical Imaging Orthopedics

Simple Explanation

This study investigates shoulder problems in individuals with spinal cord injuries, using MRI scans to find hidden or obvious issues and to help create better rehabilitation plans. The study found that shoulder pain is common in these patients and can be caused by a mix of factors, including how they use their arms for daily activities and the specific type of spinal cord injury they have. By carefully checking the shoulder joints early on, doctors can create personalized treatments for each patient, which can help improve their quality of life.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Nine patients with spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Level II, Development of Diagnostic Criteria

Key Findings

1
A significant percentage (41%) of shoulders examined showed normal results on MRI, indicating that pain isn't always linked to observable anatomical damage.
2
The most common shoulder injuries identified were tendinopathy of the supraspinatus muscle and degeneration of the acromioclavicular joint.
3
A high proportion (80%) of injured shoulders exhibited multiple combined lesions, suggesting a complex interplay of factors contributing to shoulder pain.

Research Summary

This study assessed shoulder pain in paraplegic and tetraplegic patients using clinical data and MRI exams to identify prevalent lesions and discuss their etiologies. The results showed a variety of shoulder issues, with 41% of shoulders showing normal results and the rest having conditions like supraspinatus tendinopathy and acromioclavicular joint degeneration. Eighty percent of the injured shoulders had combined lesions. The study concludes that shoulder pain in spinal cord injury patients has a multivariate etiology, emphasizing the importance of clinical and radiological assessment for better rehabilitation and pain reduction.

Practical Implications

Improved Rehabilitation

Routine clinical and radiological assessment of the shoulder in individuals with spinal cord injury can contribute to the evolution of rehabilitation techniques.

Pain Reduction

Detailed assessment and tailored therapeutic approaches can lead to a reduction in musculoarticular injuries and pain symptoms.

Early Intervention

Early identification of degenerative joint lesions allows for specific therapeutic interventions, potentially improving long-term outcomes.

CLINICAL ASSESSMENT AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF THE SHOULDER OF PATIENTS WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Rehabilitation

Pain Reduction

Early Intervention

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

CLINICAL ASSESSMENT AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF THE SHOULDER OF PATIENTS WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Rehabilitation

Pain Reduction

Early Intervention

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?