Spatial (step length and step width) and temporal (step time and double support time [DST]) gait measures were recorded with a GAITRite walkway. Variability for each gait measure was the standard deviation of measurements recorded during six walks. Sensorimotor measures included visual contrast
sensitivity, lower limb proprioception. quadriceps strength, reaction time, and body sway (eyes open and closed). Regression analysis was used to determine the relationships between sensorimotor measures and gait variability.
Results. Greater sway on a foam mat (eves closed) was associated with Batimastat molecular weight greater variability in all gait measures (p < .05). Slower reaction time was associated with greater variability in both temporal gait selleck measures (p < .05), whereas poorer proprioception was only associated with greater DST variability (p = .01) and weaker quadriceps strength with greater step time variability. Other sensorimotor factors were not independently associated with gait variability.
Conclusions. Body sway, reaction time,
quadriceps strength. and proprioception are likely factors that may explain gait variability in the general older population. Further research is warranted to determine causality of these associations and whether intervention programs addressing these factors may reduce gait variability in older people.”
“BACKGROUND: Peripheral nerve stimulation is a form of neuromodulation that applies electric current to peripheral nerves to induce stimulation paresthesias within the painful areas.
OBJECTIVE: To report a method of ultrasound-guided, percutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation. This technique utilizes real-time imaging to avoid injury to adjacent vascular structures during minimally invasive placement of peripheral nerve stimulator electrodes.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: We describe a patient that presented with chronic, bilateral foot pain following multiple foot surgeries, for whom a comprehensive, pain management treatment strategy had failed. We utilized ultrasound-guided, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation at a thigh level to provide durable
pain relief on the right side, and open peripheral nerve stimulation on the left.
RESULTS: The patient experienced appropriate stimulation paresthesias and excellent pain relief on the plantar aspect of the right foot with the percutaneous Pregnenolone electrode. On the left side, we were unable to direct the stimulation paresthesias to the sole of the foot, despite multiple electrode repositionings. A subsequent, open placement of a left tibial nerve stimulator was performed. This revealed that the correct electrode position against the tibial nerve was immediately adjacent to the popliteal artery, and was thus not appropriate for percutaneous placement.
CONCLUSION: We describe a method of ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve stimulation that avoids the invasiveness of electrode placement via an open procedure while providing excellent pain relief.