ArthritisDigest2013
Calcium supplements are not associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease in women, large study reports
Taking calcium supplements does not increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in women, says research in Osteoporosis International.
Calcium supplements are taken by many women for bone health but some previous research has suggested that the supplements may increase risk of cardiovascular disease. Data has been inconsistent but this large study of 74,245 women found that the risk was negligible.
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Possible link between fracture risk and uric acid levels
A potential link between higher uric acid levels in older men and an elevated risk of hip fracture has been discussed in research presented at the National Kidney Foundation spring clinical meetings.
Scientists looked at 4,692 people (1,963 men and 2,729 women) and recorded their levels of uric acid. Over the course of 11 years, there were 156 hip fractures. Continue reading
Fracture risk tool used by World Health Organisation is not effective
The World Health Organization’s tool for assessing bone fracture risk underestimates the true dangers for people who are younger than 65 years or have been treated for a single broken bone, according to a new study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.
The Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) was designed by the WHO to help predict the likelihood of adults between the ages of 40 years and 90 years breaking a bone. It is supposed to help healthcare professionals identify osteoporosis cases that cannot be easily diagnosed through bone mineral density testing. Continue reading
Men have more major complications after hip and knee replacement than women
Men are at higher risk than women for heart attack, infection, and revision surgery after total hip or knee replacement, says a large database analysis.
Experts analysed 97,445 people in Canada who had total joint replacement. A total of 59,564 people (39% male) had knee replacement and 37,881 people (46% male) had hip replacement. Continue reading
Massage shows promise for those with limited mobility, new study highlights
Massage improves blood flow and alleviates muscle soreness after exercise – but improves vascular function in those who have not exercised too, says research published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Although improved circulation and relief of muscle soreness are common claims made for massage’s benefits, little research has been done to back up such claims. Continue reading
