Article

The primary aim of this study is to establish the validity of
grayscale-based quantitative ultrasound (QUS) measures of the biceps and
supraspinatus tendons.
DESIGN: Nine QUS measures of the biceps and supraspinatus
tendons were computed from ultrasound images collected from 67 manual wheelchair
users. Shoulder pathology was measured using questionnaires, physical examination
maneuvers, and a clinical ultrasound grading scale. RESULTS: Increased age,
duration of wheelchair use, and body mass correlated with a darker and more
homogenous tendon appearance. Subjects with pain during physical examination
tests for biceps tenderness and acromioclavicular joint tenderness exhibited
significantly different supraspinatus QUS values. Even when controlling for
tendon depth, QUS measures of the biceps tendon differed significantly between
subjects with healthy tendons, mild tendinosis, and severe tendinosis. Clinical
grading of supraspinatus tendon health was correlated with QUS measures of the
supraspinatus tendon. CONCLUSIONS: QUS is valid method to quantify tendinopathy
and may allow for early detection of tendinosis. Manual wheelchair users are at a
high risk for developing shoulder tendon pathology and may benefit from QUS-based
research that focuses on identifying interventions designed to reduce this risk.

Langue : ANGLAIS