Finite element-based evaluation of the supraspinatus tendon biomechanical environment necessitates better clinical management based on tear location and thickness.

Partial-thickness rotator cuff tears are a common cause of pain and disability and are central to developing full-thickness rotator cuff tears. However, limited knowledge exists regarding the alterations to the mechanical environment due to these lesions. Computational models that study the alterations to the mechanical environment of the supraspinatus tendon can help advance clinical management to avoid tear progression and provide a basis for surgical intervention.

Disparities in Rotator Cuff Tear Progression Definitions and Rates: A Systematic Review.

Background: While rotator cuff tears are prevalent in the general population, the natural history of this disease is unclear. Understanding rotator cuff tear progression is crucial for refining surgical indications and evaluating the necessity of early interventions. This study presents an in-depth analysis of the existing literature on the definitions and progression rates of rotator cuff tears, aiming to enhance clinical decision making and patient outcomes.

Effect of Masking Secondary to the COVID-19 Pandemic on Functional Capacity Improvement in Cardiac Rehabilitation.

Purpose: Given the difficulty to perform exercise training wearing a mask, we examined differences in functional capacity improvement between masking during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and non-masking prior to the pandemic for patients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation (CR).

Methods: Records of 660 patients who underwent and completed ≥ 18 sessions of CR in 2018 (n = 318, non-masking) and in 2022 (n = 342, masking) at an academic health system were analyzed. The primary outcome was post-CR change in functional capacity in metabolic equivalents (MET) measured by exercise stress test.