Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Talar Cartilage Thickness in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Talar Cartilage Thickness in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury: A Cross-Sectional Case-Control Study

Spinal cord injury patients often present with musculoskeletal comorbidities, including osteoarthritis. Early detection of cartilage damage is important for preventing osteoarthritis progression. This study aims to compare the talar cartilage thicknesses of spinal cord injury patients with healthy subjects. The secondary aim is to investigate a correlation between the talar cartilage thickness and disease-related parameters. The patient group is to be assessed for talar cartilage thickness (via ultrasound), functional status, spasticity, and ambulation levels.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged between 18 to 60 years,
• Cervical, thoracal or lumber level of spinal cord injury
• AIS (American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale) Level A, B, C, or D
• Assisted ambulation of any kind
• Literacy
• Giving oral and written consent to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with sacral level injury
• AIS E
• MAS 4 level of spasticity
• History of any lower extremity operation
• History of fracture
• Botulinum toxin injection in the last 6 months
• Existing diagnosis of any rheumatologic or endocrine diseases