Musculoskeletal interactions in osteopathology

According to the mechanostat, a model promoted by Harold Frost and described in detail in the “Utah paradigm of skeletal physiology”, bone growth and bone loss are stimulated by the local mechanical elastic deformation of bone. Mechanical stimulation loading generated by muscles must reach a threshold in order for exercise to have positive results on bone formation. In the prevention and management of musculoskeletal diseases, modern rehabilitation should be focused on how to increase muscular and bone strength. Based on the close interaction between muscles and bones, an individualized educational approach optimizes function to the highest level of independence, while improving the overall quality of life. © Athens Medical Society

Revising hip fracture rehabilitation in the elderly

A 30-year study in Greece showed that the incidence of hip fractures due to osteoporosis has tripled over this period. Hip fractures are usually due to a traumatic event, and require surgical intervention to fix the fracture or to replace the hip joint. The subject may have been previously healthy or may be a patient suffering from osteoporosis or other co-morbidities that will affect the final prognosis. The principles of hip fracture rehabilitation advocate multi-factorial intervention, with a combination of professional medical, social and educational activities designed to retrain the individual to the highest possible level of functionality. The goals of rehabilitation are relief from pain, prevention of cardiopulmonary complications, prophylaxis from deep vein thrombosis, achievement of the maximum range of joint motion, strengthening the weakened hip muscles, and improvement of the self-care abilities of the individual. Pharmacological treatment with bisphosphonates, vitamin D and calcium is recommended to help prevent subsequent fractures. © Athens Medical Society

Sarcopenia: From definition to treatment

[No abstract available