Translational Health Reports

Abstract Introduction: Chronic neck pain (CNP) is a common and debilitating condition that significantly impacts quality of life, productivity, and overall well-being. Muscle morphology, particularly in the deep cervical muscles, plays a critical role in the onset, development, and persistence of chronic neck pain. This review investigates the relationship between muscle changes, including atrophy, fat infiltration, and alterations in muscle fiber composition, and their contribution to cervical instability, pain, and functional limitations.

Methods: The review examines existing literature on muscle morphology in CNP, focusing on the role of deep cervical muscles in the pathophysiology of neck pain. It also highlights how factors such as disuse, changes in neural activation, and chronic inflammation exacerbate these muscle alterations. The role of advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI, in identifying these changes is also discussed.

Results: Alterations in muscle morphology, including atrophy and fat infiltration, contribute to weakness and reduced spinal stability, which are key factors in the development and persistence of chronic neck pain. Neural activation changes and chronic inflammation further exacerbate muscle degeneration. Advanced imaging techniques, particularly MRI, play a crucial role in assessing these morphological changes and enabling personalized treatment strategies.

Conclusion: Muscle degeneration, including atrophy and fat infiltration in the cervical spine, is a significant factor in chronic neck pain. Effective management requires a comprehensive approach, including rehabilitation programs focused on muscle strengthening, postural correction, and ergonomic adjustments. Fat infiltration in cervical muscles is a significant marker of structural and functional impairment in cervical spine disorders. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms behind muscle changes in CNP and to develop more targeted and effective interventions.

Abstract Introduction: Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent condition characterized by chronic heel pain, primarily caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. The condition significantly impairs daily activities and quality of life, presenting a challenge for healthcare providers. Numerous treatment modalities, ranging from conservative measures to invasive interventions, have been explored to manage the symptoms and promote healing. However, the effectiveness of these treatments, especially when combined, requires further evaluation.

Methods: This review extracted data from existing studies comparing the effectiveness of corticosteroid injections (CSI) alone versus their combination with needling techniques (such as dry needling and percutaneous needle electrolysis) for chronic plantar fasciitis. The literature was assessed through systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, and clinical studies that evaluated pain relief, functional recovery, and long-term outcomes. Studies on adjunctive treatments like extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) were also considered to provide a broader comparison.

Results: Corticosteroid injections provide significant short-term pain relief but are limited in their long-term efficacy, with potential complications like tissue atrophy. Dry needling and other needling therapies, when used in combination with CSI, have shown improved long-term outcomes in terms of pain reduction and functional recovery. ESWT consistently outperformed other treatments in long-term studies for both pain management and functional improvement. Combining treatments appears to yield enhanced results, although conclusive evidence on optimal treatment protocols remains insufficient.

Conclusion: Chronic plantar fasciitis requires a multi-faceted treatment approach. While corticosteroid injections remain a common short-term solution, combining them with needling techniques may offer superior long-term benefits. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy also shows promise for sustained relief. Further research is needed to establish optimal treatment protocols and to better understand the combined effects of these interventions. An individualized treatment strategy that addresses both symptoms and underlying causes is essential for improving patient outcomes.

Abstract Introduction: Osteoporosis is a widespread bone disease characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD), structural bone deterioration, and an increased risk of fractures. It primarily affects postmenopausal women and the elderly, representing a significant global health burden. The management of osteoporosis involves pharmacological treatments aimed at preventing fractures, alleviating symptoms, and improving overall quality of life.
Methods: This review analyzes the pharmacology of current osteoporosis treatments, including bisphosphonates, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), monoclonal antibodies, and newer agents such as sclerostin inhibitors. It also examines pain management strategies, particularly those targeting fracture-related pain, and explores the intersection between bone therapies and analgesia.
Results: The current pharmacological treatments for osteoporosis have shown significant efficacy in reducing fracture risk. However, managing pain in osteoporosis, particularly post-fracture pain, remains a complex challenge. This review highlights the need for a multidimensional approach that integrates both bone-targeted therapies and effective pain management strategies.
Conclusion: While osteoporosis therapies have greatly reduced fracture risk, pain management in osteoporosis patients remains an area requiring further research. This review synthesizes current literature on osteoporosis treatments and pain management, offering insights into best practices and identifying future research directions to improve patient outcomes.