[Outcome measurement in musculoskeletal diseases: recommendation for a core set of scales for use in rehabilitation].

By application of a standardized core set of outcome measurement instruments, comparison between studies as well as meta-analyses in rehabilitation research can be facilitated. The German Society for Rheumatology has commissioned its working group on rehabilitation with the development of a proposal for such a core set of outcome measurement instruments. In a first step, dimensions for outcome measurement in rehabilitation were defined by a group of experts which represented rehabilitation hospitals, acute care hospitals, and research groups specialized in outcome measurement.

Double-blind study comparing the long-term efficacy of the COX-2 inhibitor nimesulide and naproxen in patients with osteoarthritis.

This double-blind one-year study compares the long-term efficacy and safety of nimesulide with naproxen in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee or hip. Patients were randomised to nimesulide 100 mg twice daily (n = 183) or naproxen 250 mg morning, 500 mg evening (n = 187). The primary efficacy variable was change in pain intensity (WOMAC A scale) at 6 months.

[Patient self-management and stabilization as a contribution to process quality].

Self-management is described as a pattern of patient behavior dealing with chronic disease. It encompasses self-assessment, decision making, self-care and treatment as well as documentation. The self-management behavior has to be encouraged and supported by health care professionals.