Imperial College London

Prof Caroline Alexander

Faculty of MedicineDepartment of Surgery & Cancer

Professor of Practice (Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy)
 
 
 
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Contact

 

caroline.alexander

 
 
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Location

 

Department of PhysiotherapyCharing Cross HospitalCharing Cross Campus

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Summary

 

Publications

Publication Type
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74 results found

Kirby P, Lai H, Horrocks S, Harrison M, Wilson D, Daniels S, Calvo RA, Sharp DJ, Alexander CMet al., 2024, Patient and public involvement in technology-related dementia research: a scoping review, JMIR Aging, Vol: 7, ISSN: 2561-7605

Background:Technology-related research for people with dementia and their carers often aims to enable people to remain living at home for longer and to prevent unnecessary hospital admissions. To develop research that is person-centred, effective and ethical, patient and public involvement (PPI) is necessary, though may be perceived as more difficult with this cohort. With recent and rapid expansions in health and care related technology, this review explores how, and with what impact, collaborations between researchers and stakeholders such as people with dementia have taken place.Objective:To describe approaches to PPI used to date in technology-related dementia research, along with the barriers and facilitators and impact of PPI in this area.Methods:A scoping review of literature relating to dementia, technology and patient and public involvement was conducted using Medline, PsycINFO, EMBASE and CINAHL. Papers were screened for inclusion by two authors. Data was then extracted using a pre-designed data extraction table by the same two authors; a third author supported resolution of any conflicts at each stage. Barriers and facilitators of undertaking PPI were then examined and themed.Results:Thirty-one papers were included for analysis. The majority (21/31) did not make clear distinctions between activities undertaken as PPI and activities undertaken by research participants, and as such their involvement did not fit easily into the NIHR definition of PPI. Most of this mixed involvement focused on the reviewing or evaluating of technology prototypes. A range of approaches was described, most typically using focus groups or co-design workshops. Nine studies described involvement at multiple stages through the research cycle, sometimes with evidence of sharing of decision-making power. Some studies commented on barriers or facilitators to effective PPI. Challenges identified were often around issues of working with people with significant cognitive impairments, and

Journal article

Clunie G, Roe J, Al-Yaghchi C, Alexander C, McGregor A, Sandhu Get al., 2024, The voice and swallowing profile of adults with laryngotracheal stenosis before and after reconstructive surgery: a prospective, descriptive observational study, Clinical Otolaryngology, ISSN: 0307-7772

Objectives:Airway reconstruction for laryngo tracheal stenosis (LTS) improves dyspnoea. There is little evidence relating to impact upon voice and swallowing. We explored voice and swallowing outcomes in adults with LTS before and after reconstructive surgery.Design:Outcome measures were collected pre-reconstructive surgery, two-weeks post-surgery and up to 4-6 months post-surgery.Setting:Tertiary referral centre.Participants:With ethical approval, twenty consecutive adult (≥18 years) LTS patients undergoing airway reconstruction were prospectively recruited.Main outcome measures:These included physiological values (maximum phonation time (MPT) and fundamental frequency; penetration aspiration score, residue score), clinician-reported (GRBAS, functional oral intake score, 100ml Water Swallow Test) and patient-reported outcomes (Voice Handicap Index-10, Reflux Symptoms Index, Eating Assessment Tool, Dysphagia Handicap Index).Results:The observational study identified patient-reported and clinician-reported voice and swallow difficulties pre- and post-surgery; median and interquartile range are reported at each time point: Voice Handicap Index-10 23 (8-31); 20.5 (9-33.5), 24.5 (12.5-29); Dysphagia Handicap Index 9 (0-37); 13 (7-44); 15 (4-34); GRBAS grade 1(1-2); 2 (1-2.5); 2(1-2); 100ml Water Swallow Test volume score 16.7 (11.1-20); 14.3 (12.5-16.7); 16.7 (14.3-20.0); 100ml Water Swallow Test capacity score 16.3 ± 9.0; 11.0 ± 4.1; 12.5 ± 2.6.Conclusions:We present the first prospective data on voice and swallowing outcomes in adults with LTS before and after reconstructive surgery. The variability of the outcomes was higher than expected but importantly, for many the voice and swallow outcomes were not within normal limits before surgery. The clinical value of the study demonstrates the need for individual assessment and management of LTS patients’ voice and swallowing.

Journal article

Kennedy D, Hettiaratchy S, Alexander C, 2024, Clinical evaluation of post-surgical scar hyperesthesia: a longitudinal observational pilot study, Scars, Burns & Healing, Vol: 10, ISSN: 2059-5131

IntroductionThe mechanisms underlying persistent scar pain are not fully elucidated and evidence for the clinical evaluation of scar pain is limited. This pilot observational study investigated participation data and sought to identify objective clinical scar evaluation measures for future trials.MethodsWith ethical approval and consent, adults undergoing planned hand surgery were enrolled from one NHS hospital. At 1- and 4-months post-surgery scar thermal and mechanical pain thresholds were evaluated with quantitative sensory testing; peri-scar inflammation with infrared thermometry and pliability with durometry. Participation data were analysed with descriptive statistics; the association of clinical measures with patient reported scar pain was analysed.ResultsTwenty-one participants (22% eligible patients) enrolled before study closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic; 13 completed follow up. No adverse events or dropouts resulted from clinical scar evaluation. Seventy percent of participants reported undertaking topical, nonprescription scar treatment independently. Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI) scores were dispersed across the score range, capturing variability in participant-reported scar symptoms. Scar morphology, pliability and inflammation were not associated with scar pain. Differences between scar and contralateral skin in thermal and mechanical pain sensitivity were identified.ConclusionPeople with acute hand scars participate in clinical research and independently initiate scar treatment. Clinical testing of acute post-surgical hand scars is well tolerated. The NPSI demonstrates utility for exploring scar pain symptoms and may support the elucidation of mechanisms of persistent scar pain. Clinical tests of thermal and mechanical and sensitivity are promising candidate clinical measures of scar pain for future trials.

Journal article

Boyles RH, Alexander CM, Belsi A, Strutton PHet al., 2024, Are Clinical Prediction Rules Used in Spinal Cord Injury Care? A Survey of Practice., Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, Vol: 30, Pages: 45-58

BACKGROUND: Accurate outcome prediction is desirable post spinal cord injury (SCI), reducing uncertainty for patients and supporting personalized treatments. Numerous attempts have been made to create clinical prediction rules that identify patients who are likely to recover function. It is unknown to what extent these rules are routinely used in clinical practice. OBJECTIVES: To better understand knowledge of, and attitudes toward, clinical prediction rules amongst SCI clinicians in the United Kingdom. METHODS: An online survey was distributed via mailing lists of clinical special interest groups and relevant National Health Service Trusts. Respondents answered questions about their knowledge of existing clinical prediction rules and their general attitudes to using them. They also provided information about their level of experience with SCI patients. RESULTS: One hundred SCI clinicians completed the survey. The majority (71%) were unaware of clinical prediction rules for SCI; only 8% reported using them in clinical practice. Less experienced clinicians were less likely to be aware. Lack of familiarity with prediction rules was reported as being a barrier to their use. The importance of clinical expertise when making prognostic decisions was emphasized. All respondents reported interest in using clinical prediction rules in the future. CONCLUSION: The results show widespread lack of awareness of clinical prediction rules amongst SCI clinicians in the United Kingdom. However, clinicians were positive about the potential for clinical prediction rules to support decision-making. More focus should be directed toward refining current rules and improving dissemination within the SCI community.

Journal article

Woodbridge H, Norton C, Jones M, Brett S, Alexander C, Gordon Aet al., 2023, Clinician and patient perspectives on the barriers and facilitators to physical rehabilitation in intensive care: a qualitative interview study, BMJ Open, Vol: 13, ISSN: 2044-6055

Objectives The objective of this study is to explore patient, relative/carer and clinician perceptions of barriers to early physical rehabilitation in intensive care units (ICUs) within an associated group of hospitals in the UK and how they can be overcome.Design Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and thematic framework analysis.Setting Four ICUs over three hospital sites in London, UK.Participants Former ICU patients or their relatives/carers with personal experience of ICU rehabilitation. ICU clinicians, including doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and occupational therapists, involved in the delivery of physical rehabilitation or decisions over its initiation.Primary and secondary outcomes measures Views and experiences on the barriers and facilitators to ICU physical rehabilitation.Results Interviews were carried out with 11 former patients, 3 family members and 16 clinicians. The themes generated related to: safety and physiological concerns, patient participation and engagement, clinician experience and knowledge, teamwork, equipment and environment and risks and benefits of rehabilitation in intensive care. The overarching theme for overcoming barriers was a change in working model from ICU clinicians having separate responsibilities (a multidisciplinary approach) to one where all parties have a shared aim of providing patient-centred ICU physical rehabilitation (an interdisciplinary approach).Conclusions The results have revealed barriers that can be modified to improve rehabilitation delivery in an ICU. Interdisciplinary working could overcome many of these barriers to optimise recovery from critical illness.

Journal article

Newington L, Alexander CM, Wells M, Lavander A, Tracy O, Markham S, Begum Set al., 2023, Development of a framework and research impact capture tool for nursing, midwifery, allied health professions, healthcare science, pharmacy and psychology (NMAHPPs), BMC Health Services Research, Vol: 23, ISSN: 1472-6963

Background:There is an ambitious target to create a UK clinical academic workforce representing 1% of clinicians from nursing, midwifery, the allied health professions, healthcare science, pharmacy and psychology (NMAHPPs). Understanding and recording the impact that clinical academics make across healthcare services is crucial if we are to grow, value and support this highly skilled workforce group. However, it is currently difficult to systematically record, collate and report the impacts associated with NMAHPP research activity. The aims of this project were to i) develop a framework outlining the impacts that were important for key stakeholder groups, and ii) create and pilot a research impact capture tool to record these impacts.Methods:The framework was developed from the existing literature. It was refined, remodelled and approved by multidisciplinary stakeholder involvement, including patient and public representatives, healthcare managers and research-active clinicians. The framework was converted into a series of questions to create an electronic research impact capture tool, which was also refined through feedback from these stakeholder groups. The impact capture tool was piloted with research-active clinicians across a large NHS Trust and its associated organisations.Results:The impact framework contained eight elements: clinical background, research and service improvement activities, research capacity building, research into practice, patients and service users, research dissemination, economics and research funding, and collaborations. Thirty individuals provided data for the research impact capture tool pilot (55% response rate). Respondents reported a range of positive impacts representing all elements of the framework. Importantly, research-activity appeared to be a key driver for recruitment and retention in the sample population.Conclusions:The impact capture tool is a feasible method of recording the breadth of impacts associated with NMAHPP res

Journal article

Clunie G, Belsi A, Roe J, Sandhu G, McGregor A, Alexander Cet al., 2023, “Is there something wrong with your voice?” A qualitative study of the voice concerns of people with laryngotracheal stenosis, International Journal of Language and Communication Disorders, Vol: 58, Pages: 376-389, ISSN: 1368-2822

BackgroundAcquired laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) is a rare condition that causes breathlessness and dyspnoea. Patients have reconstructive airway surgery to improve their breathing difficulties, but both LTS and the surgery can cause voice difficulties. The existing evidence base for management of the voice difficulties for adults with LTS focuses on symptoms. There is limited information to provide clinical guidance for speech and language therapists (SLTs), and limited understanding of the impact of voice changes on adults with LTS. AimTo investigate the lived experience of adults with laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS), who have had reconstructive surgery; here focussing on voice concerns with the aim of guiding clinical care for SLTs.Methods & ProceduresA phenomenological, qualitative study design was used. Focus groups and semi-structured interviews were completed with adults living with LTS who had had reconstructive surgery. Audio-recordings were transcribed and inductive thematic analysis was used by the research team to identify themes and sub-themes. Outcomes & ResultsA total of 24 participants (5 focus groups and 2 interviews) took part in the study before thematic saturation was identified in analysis. Three main themes were identified specific to the experience of living with LTS: the Medical, Physical and Emotional journey. All participants referenced voice difficulties as they related to each of these overall themes. Sub-themes directly related to voice included: experience of surgery, information provision, staff expertise/complacency, symptoms, symptom management, identity, support networks, impact on life and living with a chronic condition. Conclusions & ImplicationsIn this qualitative study participants have described the integral part voice difficulties play in their lived experience of LTS and reconstructive surgery. This is considered in the context of their clinical care and the need for individualised management and information prov

Journal article

Newington L, Alexander C, Kirby P, Saggu R, Wells Met al., 2022, Reflections on contributing to health research: A qualitative interview study with research participants and patient advisors, PLoS One, Vol: 17, ISSN: 1932-6203

Objectives:The aims of this study were to explore individuals’ experiences of contributing to health research and to identify the types of impact that are perceived as important by participants or patient and public advisors. Specifically, research led by NMAHPP clinicians (Nursing, Midwifery, Allied health professions, Healthcare science, Psychology and Pharmacy).Methods:Semi-structured one-to-one interviews were conducted with health research participants and patient or public advisors. Interviewees were recruited from five UK sites and via social media. Interview transcripts were analysed using Thematic Analysis to identify key themes and areas of disagreement.Results:Twenty-one interviews were completed, and four main themes were identified. The first, optimising research experiences, included personal reflections and broader recommendations to improve participant experiences. The second, connecting health research with healthcare, described research as key for the continued development of healthcare, but illustrated that communication between research teams, participants, and clinicians could be improved. The third theme explored the personal impacts of contributing to research, with interviewees recalling common positive experiences. The final theme discussed capturing research impacts. Interviewees highlighted potential priorities for different stakeholders, but emphasised that financial impacts should not be the sole factor.Conclusion:Individuals who were involved in NMAHPP health research recalled positive experiences and reported good relationships with their research teams. They felt that their contributions were valued. Suggested strategies to optimise the research experience focused on simplifying documentation, clear signposting of the research activities involved, and feedback on the research findings. Routine sharing of relevant research data with clinicians was also recommended. Personal impacts included a deeper understanding of their health

Journal article

Clunie G, Anderson C, Hughes C, Savage M, Roe J, Sandhu G, McGregor A, Alexander Cet al., 2022, “A major quality of life issue”: A survey-based analysis of the experiences of adults with laryngotracheal stenosis with mucus and cough, Annals of Otology, Rhinology and Laryngology, Vol: 131, Pages: 962-970, ISSN: 0003-4894

Objectives:To investigate how the symptoms of mucus and cough impact adults living with laryngotracheal stenosis, and to use this information to guide future research and treatment plans.Methods:A survey was developed with the support of patient advisors and distributed to people suffering with laryngotracheal stenosis. The survey comprised 15 closed and open questions relating to mucus and cough and included the Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ). Descriptive statistics, X2 and thematic analyses were completed.Results:In total, 641 participants completed the survey, with 83.62% (n = 536) reporting problems with mucus; 79% having daily issues of varying severity that led to difficulties with cough (46.18%) and breathing (20.90%). Mucus affected voice and swallowing to a lesser degree. Respondents described a range of triggers; they identified smoky air as the worst environmental trigger. Strategies to manage mucus varied widely with drinking water (72.26%), increasing liquid intake in general (49.35%) and avoiding or reducing dairy (45.32%) the most common approaches to control symptoms. The LCQ showed a median total score of 14 (interquartile range 11-17) indicative of cough negatively affecting quality of life. Thematic analysis of free text responses identified 4 key themes—the Mucus Cycle, Social impact, Psychological impact, and Physical impact.Conclusion:This study shows the relevance of research focusing on mucus and cough and its negative impact on quality of life, among adults with laryngotracheal stenosis. It demonstrates the inconsistent advice and management strategies provided by clinicians for this issue. Further research is required to identify clearer treatment options and pathways.

Journal article

Woodbridge H, Alexander C, Jones M, Gordon Aet al., 2022, Exploring the barriers to early physical rehabilitation and investigating its safety in critically ill patients receiving vasoactive drugs. Rising Star - ICS Gold Medal., Intensive Care Society State of the Art 2021 Congress, Publisher: SAGE Publications

Conference paper

Alexander C, Strutton P, Kassam J, Long M, Kiru Let al., 2022, An investigation of the control of quadriceps in people who are hypermobile; a case control design. Do the results impact our choice of exercise for people with symptomatic hypermobility?, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, Vol: 23, ISSN: 1471-2474

Background: People with symptomatic hypermobility have altered proprioception however, the origin of this is unclear and needs further investigation to target rehabilitation appropriately. The objective of this investigation was to explore the corticospinal and reflex control of quadriceps and see if it differed between three groups of people: those who have symptomatic hypermobility, asymptomatic hypermobility and normal flexibility. Methods: Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and electrical stimulation of peripheral nerves, motor evoked potentials (MEPs) and Hoffman (H) reflexes of quadriceps were evoked in the three groups of people. The threshold and latency of MEPs and the slope of the input-output curves and the amplitude of MEPs and H reflexes were compared across the groups.Results: The slope of the input-output curve created from MEPs as a result of TMS was steeper in people with symptomatic hypermobility when compared to asymptomatic and normally flexible people (p = 0.04). There were no other differences between the groups.Conclusion: Corticospinal excitability and the excitability at the motoneurone pool are not likely candidates for the origin of proprioceptive loss in people with symptomatic hypermobility. This is discussed in the light of other work to suggest the receptor sitting in hypermobile connective tissue is a likely candidate. This suggests that treatment aimed at improving receptor responsiveness through increasing muscle tone, may be an effective rehabilitation strategy.

Journal article

Newington L, Alexander CM, Wells M, 2022, What is a clinical academic? Qualitative interviews with healthcare managers, research-active nurses and other research-active healthcare professionals outside medicine, Journal of Clinical Nursing, Vol: 31, Pages: 378-389, ISSN: 0962-1067

AIM AND OBJECTIVES: To explore the concept of 'clinical academic' from the perspectives of healthcare managers and research-active healthcare professionals outside medicine. BACKGROUND: Clinical academics are understood to be healthcare professionals who combine clinical and research responsibilities within their role. However, there is no agreed definition for this term either within or across nursing, midwifery and the other healthcare professions outside medicine. DESIGN: Qualitative service evaluation, reported using the COREQ checklist. METHODS: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of eight healthcare managers and 12 research-active clinicians within a UK hospital group. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using the Framework method. RESULTS: Clinical academics were described in four themes. Two themes explored the components of the role and the contribution of these individuals to their profession: combining clinical practice, research and education; and pushing boundaries. The third theme identified the clinical academic label as: a title that doesn't fit. The final theme examined a characteristic mindset of research-active clinicians. There were no clear differences in the perceptions of managers and research-active clinicians. CONCLUSIONS: Clinical academics were perceived as valuable members of their team and were able to push the boundaries to move their profession forward. Some research-active clinicians did not identify with the term 'clinical academic' and for some managers and research-active clinicians, the term was viewed as jargonistic. A clear and accepted definition would aid development of clinical academic career pathways and identities. It would also assist in evaluating the impact of these roles. RELEVANCE TO PRACTICE: As clinical academics roles and opportunities are being developed across the professions outside medicine, it is important to have a shared common understa

Journal article

Alexander C, 2022, Imaging, blood tests and neurophysiological assessment, The Shoulder: Theory and Practice, Editors: Alexander, Publisher: Springer, ISBN: 9781913426170

Book chapter

Newington L, Alexander C, Wells M, 2021, Would you like to be contacted about future research?, BMC Research Notes, Vol: 14, ISSN: 1756-0500

Many research participants are willing to be contacted about future research opportunities, however this question is not always asked. Furthermore, if participants do consent for contact about future research, this information is not always accessible to other research teams. We discuss our experience of recruiting individuals who have previously taken part in healthcare research and suggest potential strategies to support this process and enable greater research participation.

Journal article

Bates A, McGregor A, Alexander C, 2021, Prolonged standing behaviour in people with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, Vol: 22, ISSN: 1471-2474

Background: Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS) is a rare Heritable Disorder of Connective tissue characterised by generalised joint laxity and chronic widespread pain. Joint Hypermobility Syndrome has a large impact on patients’ day to day activities, and many complain of symptoms when standing for prolonged periods. This study investigates whether people with JHS exhibit the same behaviours to deal with the effects of prolonged standing as people with equal hypermobility and no pain, and people with normal flexibility and no pain.Methods: 23 people with JHS, 22 people with Generalised Joint Hypermobility (GJH), and 22 people with normal flexibility (NF) were asked to stand for a maximum of 15 minutes across two force-plates. Fidgets were counted and quantified using a cumulative sum algorithm and sway parameters of the quiet standing periods between fidgets were calculated. Results: Average standing time for participants with JHS was 7.35 minutes and none stood for the full 15 minutes. All participants with GJH and NF completed 15 minutes of standing. There were no differences in fidgeting behaviour between any groups. There was a difference in anteroposterior sway (p=.029) during the quiet standing periods.Conclusion: There is no evidence to suggest people with JHS exhibit different fidgeting behaviour. Increased anteroposterior-sway may suggest a muscle weakness and strengthening muscles around the ankle may reduce postural sway and potentially improve the ability to stand for prolonged periods.

Journal article

Kennedy DL, Vollert J, Ridout D, Alexander CM, Rice ASet al., 2021, The responsiveness of quantitative sensory testing-derived sensory phenotype to disease-modifying intervention in patients with entrapment neuropathy: a longitudinal study, Pain, Vol: 162, Pages: 2881-2893, ISSN: 0304-3959

ABSTRACT: The German Research Network on Neuropathic Pain (DFNS) quantitative sensory testing (QST) method for sensory phenotyping is used to stratify patients by mechanism associated sensory phenotype, theorised to be predictive of intervention efficacy. We hypothesised that change in pain and sensory dysfunction would relate to change in sensory phenotype. We investigated the responsiveness of sensory phenotype to surgery in patients with an entrapment neuropathy.With ethical approval and consent, this observational study recruited patients with neurophysiologically confirmed carpal tunnel syndrome. Symptom and pain severity parameters and DFNS QST were evaluated prior to and after carpal tunnel surgery. Surgical outcome was evaluated by patient-rated change. Symptom severity score of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire and associated pain and paraesthesia subgroups were comparators for clinically relevant change.QST results (n=76) were compared to healthy controls (n=54). At 6 months post-surgery 92% participants reported a good surgical outcome and large decrease in pain and symptom severity (p<.001). Change in QST parameters occurred for thermal detection, thermal pain and mechanical detection thresholds with a moderate to large effect size. Change in mechanical pain measures were not statistically significant. Change occurred in sensory phenotype post-surgery (p<.001); sensory phenotype was associated with symptom subgroup (p=.03) and patient-rated surgical outcome (p =.02).QST derived sensory phenotype is sensitive to clinically important change. In an entrapment neuropathy model, sensory phenotype was associated with patient-reported symptoms and demonstrated statistically significant, clinically relevant change after disease modifying intervention. Sensory phenotype was independent of disease severity and may reflect underlying neuropathophysiology.

Journal article

Kennedy DL, Ridout D, Lysakova L, Vollert J, Alexander CM, Rice ASCet al., 2021, The association of sensory phenotype and concomitant mood, sleep and functional impairment with the outcome of carpal tunnel surgery, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, Vol: 22, Pages: 1-19, ISSN: 1471-2474

BackgroundUp to 25% of people who have had carpal tunnel release surgery (CTR) fail to report improvement; however, evidence for prognostic indicators in this surgical cohort is limited. To identify candidate prognostic factors, this study investigated the association of quantitative sensory testing (QST) derived sensory phenotype and attendant impairment with patient-reported surgical outcome.MethodsWith ethical approval and informed consent, this prospective observational longitudinal study recruited patients from two London hospitals. Multimodal phenotyping measures including quantitative sensory testing (QST), pain parameters, insomnia, pain-related worry, mood and function, were evaluated prior to; and at 3- and 6-months post-surgery. Pain in median nerve distribution with electrophysiologically confirmed conduction delay and DN4 score ≥ 4 was defined as neuropathic. Primary outcome was patient-rated change at 6 months, dichotomised as poor outcome; “worse” or “no change” and good outcome; “slightly better”, “much better” or “completely cured”.ResultsSeventy-six patients participated. Prior to surgery, substantial heterogeneity in established categories of somatosensory function was observed with 21% of participants categorised as having a healthy sensory phenotype; 29% with thermal hyperalgesia; 32% mechanical hyperalgesia and 18% sensory loss. Seventy six percent of participants were classified as having neuropathic pain, 33% with high levels of pain related worry and 64% with clinical insomnia. Observed differences in pain, sleep impairment, psychological factors and function, between sensory phenotypic groups, was not significant. At 3- and 6-months post-surgery there was significant improvement in all phenotyping measures with a moderate to large effect size. Thermal and mechanical measures of somatosensation improved (p < 0.001), as did functional ability

Journal article

Newington L, Alexander CM, Wells M, 2021, The impacts of clinical academic activity: Qualitative interviews with healthcare managers and research-active nurses, midwives, allied health professionals and pharmacists, BMJ Open, Vol: 11, ISSN: 2044-6055

Objectives: To explore the perceived impacts of clinical academic activity among the professions outside medicine.Design: Qualitative semistructured interviews.Setting and participants: There were two groups of interviewees: Research-active nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, healthcare scientists, psychologists and pharmacists (NMAHPPs) and managers of these professions. All participants were employed in a single, multisite healthcare organisation in the UK.Analysis: Interview transcripts were analysed using the framework method to identify key themes, subthemes and areas of divergence.Results: Four themes were identified. The first, cultural shifts, described the perceived improvements in the approach to patient care and research culture that were associated with clinical academic activity. The second theme explored visibility and included the positive reputation that clinical academics were identified as bringing to the organisation in contrast with perceived levels of invisibility and inaccessibility of these roles. The third theme identified the impacts of the clinical academic pathways, including the precarity of these roles. The final theme explored making impact tangible, and described interviewees’ suggestions of possible methods to record and demonstrate impact.Conclusions: Perceived positive impacts of NMAHPP clinical academic activity focused on interlinked positive changes for patients and clinical teams. This included delivery of evidence-based healthcare, patient involvement in clinical decision making and improved staff recruitment and retention. However, the positive impacts of clinical academic activity often centred around individual clinicians and did not necessarily translate throughout the organisation. The current clinical academic pathway was identified as causing tension between the perceived value of clinical academic activity and the need to find sufficient staffing to cover clinical services.

Journal article

Bates A, McGregor A, Alexander C, 2021, Comparing sagittal plane kinematics and kinetics of gait and stair climbing between hypermobile and non-hypermobile people; a cross-sectional study, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, Vol: 22, Pages: 1-9, ISSN: 1471-2474

Background: Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS) presents with a range of symptoms including widespread joint hypermobility and chronic arthralgia. The study objective was to investigate whether impairments in JHS are due to hypermobility or another factor of JHS by identifying impairments in gait and stair-climbing tasks; an activity that is demanding and so may better show differences between the cohorts.Methods: 68 adults participated; 23 JHS, 23 Generalised Joint Hypermobility (GJH), and 22 Normal Flexibility (NF). Inclusion criteria for JHS participants were a positive classification using the Brighton Criteria, for GJH a Beighton Score ≥4, and for NF a Beighton Score <4 with no hypermobile knees. Participants were recorded with a 10-camera Vicon system whilst they performed gait and stair-climbing. Temporal-spatial, and sagittal plane kinematic and kinetic outcome measures were calculated and input to statistical analyses by statistical parametric mapping (SPM).Results: During the gait activity JHS had significantly greater stride time and significantly lower velocity than NF, and significantly greater stride time, lower velocity, and lower stride length than GJH. SPM analysis showed no significant differences between groups in gait kinematics. There were significant differences between groups for gait moments and powers; people with JHS tended to have lower moments and generate less power at the ankle, and favour power generation at the knee. A similar strategy was present in stair ascent. During stair descent people with JHS showed significantly more hip flexion than people with NF.Conclusions: As there was only one significant difference between GJH and NF we conclude that impairments cannot be attributed to hypermobility alone, but rather other factor(s) of JHS. The results show that both gait and stair-climbing is impaired in JHS. Stair-climbing results indicate that JHS are using a knee-strategy and avoiding use of the ankle, which may be a factor f

Journal article

Newington L, Wells M, Adonis A, Bolton L, Bolton Saghdaoui L, Coffey M, Crow J, Fadeeva Costa O, Hughes C, Savage M, Pakzad-Shahabi L, Alexander Cet al., 2021, A qualitative systematic review and thematic synthesis exploring the impacts of clinical academic activity by healthcare professionals outside medicine, BMC Health Services Research, Vol: 21, ISSN: 1472-6963

Background: There are increasing opportunities for healthcare professionals outside medicine to be involved in and lead clinical research. However, there are few roles within these professions that include time for research. In order to develop such roles, and evaluate effective use of this time, the range of impacts of this clinical academic activity need to be valued and understood by healthcare leaders and managers. To date, these impacts have not been comprehensively explored, but are suggested to extend beyond traditional quantitative impact metrics, such as publications, citations and funding awards. Methods: Ten databases, four grey literature repositories and a naïve web search engine were systematically searched for articles reporting impacts of clinical academic activity by healthcare professionals outside medicine. Specifically, this did not include the direct impacts of the research findings, rather the impacts of the research activity. All stages of the review were performed by a minimum of two reviewers and reported impacts were categorised qualitatively according to a modified VICTOR (making Visible the ImpaCT Of Research) framework. Results: Of the initial 2,704 identified articles, 20 were eligible for inclusion. Identified impacts were mapped to seven themes: impacts for patients; impacts for the service provision and workforce; impacts to research profile, culture and capacity; economic impacts; impacts on staff recruitment and retention; impacts to knowledge exchange; and impacts to the clinical academic. Conclusions: Several overlapping sub-themes were identified across the main themes. These included the challenges and benefits of balancing clinical and academic roles, the creation and implementation of new evidence, and the development of collaborations and networks. These may be key areas for organisations to explore when looking to support and increase academic activity among healthcare professionals outside medicine. The modified VICTO

Journal article

Clunie GM, Belsi A, Roe JWG, Alexander CM, Sandhu G, McGregor Aet al., 2021, Not just dyspnoea: swallowing as a concern for adults with laryngotracheal stenosis undergoing airway reconstruction, Dysphagia, Vol: 37, Pages: 365-374, ISSN: 0179-051X

Acquired laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) is a rare condition causing dyspnea and stridor. Patients often require multiple surgical procedures with no guarantee of a definitive outcome. Difficulty swallowing is a recognised problem associated with LTS and the reconstructive surgeries required to manage the condition. The breathlessness patient’s experience impacts on swallowing, and the vulnerable structures of the larynx are implicated during complex surgeries. This leads to dysphagia post-surgery, with some patients experiencing more chronic symptoms depending on the biomechanical impact of the surgery, or a pre-existing dysphagia. Despite this there is limited observational research about the dysphagia associated with LTS, with no exploration of the patient experience. Our aim was to investigate patient experience of living with LTS focussing on dysphagia in order to guide clinical practice. A qualitative study was completed using focus groups and semi-structured interviews with 24 patients who have had reconstructive surgery for LTS. Thematic analysis was used to identify three over-arching themes: The Physical Journey, The Emotional Journey and The Medical Journey. Key sub-themes included the importance of self-management and control, presence of symptoms, benefits of therapy, living with a life-long condition, fear and anxiety, autonomy, medicalisation of normal processes and the dichotomy between staff expertise and complacency. Swallowing was connected to all themes. The results are reviewed with consideration of the wider literature of lived experience particularly in relation to other chronic conditions and those that carry a high symptom burden such as head and neck cancer. Future clinical and research recommendations have been made. Akin to other clinical groups, adults with LTS are keen that management of their swallowing is person-centred and holistic.

Journal article

Bates A, McGregor A, Alexander C, 2021, Adaptation of balance reactions following anterior perturbations in people with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, Vol: 22, ISSN: 1471-2474

BackgroundJoint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS) is a Heritable Disorder of Connective tissue characterised by joint laxity and chronic widespread arthralgia. People with JHS exhibit a range of other symptoms including balance problems. To explore balance further, the objective of this study is to compare responses to forward perturbations between three groups; people who are hypermobile with (JHS) and without symptoms and people with normal flexibility.MethodsTwenty-one participants with JHS, 23 participants with Generalised Joint Hypermobility (GJH) and 22 participants who have normal flexibility (NF) stood on a platform that performed 6 sequential, sudden forward perturbations (the platform moved to the anterior to the participant). Electromyographic outcomes (EMG) and kinematics for the lower limbs were recorded using a Vicon motion capture system. Within and between group comparisons were made using Kruskal Wallis tests.ResultsThere were no significant differences between groups in muscle onset latency. At the 1st perturbation the group with JHS had significantly longer time-to-peak amplitude than the NF group in tibialis anterior, vastus medialis, rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and than the GJH group in the gluteus medius. The JHS group showed significantly higher cumulative joint angle (CA) than the NF group in the hip and knee at the 1st and 2nd and 6th perturbation, and in the ankle at the 2nd perturbation. Participants with JHS had significantly higher CA than the GJH group at the in the hip and knee in the 1st and 2nd perturbation. There were no significant differences in TTR.ConclusionsThe JHS group were able to normalise the timing of their muscular response in relation to control groups. They were less able to normalise joint CA, which may be indicative of impaired balance control and strength, resulting in reduced stability.

Journal article

Clunie G, Roe J, Alexander C, Sandhu G, McGregor Aet al., 2021, Voice and swallowing outcomes following airway reconstruction in adults: a systematic review, The Laryngoscope, Vol: 131, Pages: 146-157, ISSN: 0023-852X

Objectives: Laryngotracheal stenosis is a rare condition characterized by upper airway narrowing. Reconstructive surgical treatment aims to manage the area of stenosis to improve dyspnea and can impact on voice and swallowing function. This article critically evaluates the literature about voice and swallowing outcomes in adults with laryngotracheal stenosis who undergo reconstructive surgery.Study Design: Systematic review.Methods: Six databases were searched for articles referring to voice and swallowing outcome measures following reconstruction procedures in adults with laryngotracheal stenosis. Screening was completed using predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results: A total of 143 abstracts were reviewed, with 67 articles selected for full text review. 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. Data extraction was completed with The Strengthening Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist with Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Level of Evidence used to indicate quality. Risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Non-Randomized Studies. All studies scored a high risk of bias in at least one of the domains. Selection and timing of outcome measures was heterogenous and there was limited information provided about rationale or reliability.Conclusion: The literature acknowledges the importance of voice and swallowing outcomes following airway reconstruction. Studies show correlation between reconstructive surgery and deterioration in vocal function; there is no consistent data about swallowing outcomes. The lack of a core outcome measures set for adults with laryngotracheal stenosis limits the findings of this review. Further research is needed to establish clear criteria for robust and clinically relevant outcome measurement.

Journal article

Castro-Sanchez E, Alexander CM, Atchison C, Patel D, Leung W, Calamita ME, Garcia DM, Cimpeanu C, Mumbwatasai JM, Ramid D, Doherty K, Grewal HS, Otter JA, Wells EMet al., 2020, Evaluation of a personal protective equipment (PPE) support programme ('PPE Helpers') for staff during the COVID-19 pandemic in London, Journal of Hospital Infection, Vol: 109, Pages: 68-7, ISSN: 0195-6701

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has presented one of the biggest challenges to healthcare providers worldwide. The appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has been essential to ensuring staff and patient safety. To counteract sub-optimal PPE practice, a PPE helper programme was developed at a large London hospital group. Based on a behaviour change model of Capability, Opportunity and Motivation (COM-B), the programme provided PPE support, advice and education to ward staff.AimEvaluation of the PPE Helper Programme.MethodsClinical and non-clinical ward staff completed a questionnaire informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework and COM-B. The questionnaire was available in paper and electronic versions. Quantitative responses were analysed using descriptive and non-parametric statistics, free-text responses were analysed thematically.FindingsOver a six-week period, PPE helpers made 268 ward visits. Overall, 261 questionnaires were available for analysis. Across the Trust, 68% of respondents reported having had contact with a PPE helper. Staff who had encountered a PPE helper responded significantly more positively to a range of statements about using PPE than those who had not. Black and Minority Ethnic (BAME) staff were significantly more anxious in relation to the adequacy of PPE. Non-clinical and redeployed staff (e.g. domestic staff) were most positive about the impact of PPE helpers. Free-text comments showed that staff found the programme supportive and would have liked it earlier in the pandemic.ConclusionA PPE Helper programme is a feasible and beneficial intervention for providing support, advice and education to ward staff during infectious disease outbreaks.

Journal article

Aldera M, Alexander C, McGregor A, 2020, Prevalence and incidence of low back pain in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: a systematic review, Journal of Epidemiology and Global Health, Vol: 10, Pages: 269-275, ISSN: 2210-6006

Study Design: A systematic review.Objective: To identify published studies that assess the prevalence and incidence of Low Back Pain (LBP) in the Saudi Arabian population.Methods: Six electronic databases were searched for articles published between January 1995 and December 2018. Crosssectional or cohort studies were included if they were conducted in the KSA and focused on the prevalence or incidence of LBP in adults. Case–control and retrospective studies were excluded. Studies were also excluded if they did not meet the quality criteria set out by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) assessment or had a high or medium risk of bias according to the criteria proposed by Hoy et al. One independent reviewer (MAA) verified that the studies met the inclusion criteria, and three independent reviewers (MAA, AHM, CMA) assessed the quality of the studies and extracted their relevant characteristics. All the studies were assessed for quality using the JBI assessment and were assessed for risk of bias according to the Hoy et al. approach.Results: The initial search identified 158 papers; five studies met the inclusion criteria. The nature of the findings meant no meta-analysis could be performed; therefore, a narrative summary was generated to discuss the findings. The prevalence of LBP in different professional groups within a working-age group ranged between 64% and 89%.Discussion: The prevalence of LBP in the KSA has only been examined within specific professional groups, which limits the ability to generalize the finding. The review clarifies the need for further quality epidemiological studies to identify the prevalence of LBP in the general population. Many of the issues identified are problems related to occupational risk of LBP. The implication therefore is that these occupational factors need to be assessed so that risk factors for LBP among employees in KSA can be modified.

Journal article

Clunie G, Belsi A, Roe J, Alexander C, Sandhu G, McGregor Aet al., 2020, Not Just Dyspnoea – Swallowing as a Concern for Adults with Laryngotracheal Stenosis Who Undergo Reconstructive Surgery?, UK Swallowing Research Group 2020 Conference

Conference paper

To M, Strutton P, Alexander C, 2019, Central fatigue is greater than peripheral fatigue in people with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome, Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology, Vol: 48, Pages: 197-204, ISSN: 1050-6411

Purpose: People with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS) suffer with fatigue. The purpose of this project was to investigate the contribution of central and peripheral fatigue.Methods: Electrical stimulation of the musculocutaneous nerve to biceps brachii, and transcranial magnetic stimulation over the motor cortex supplying biceps brachii were used. Peripheral and central fatigue were assessed during a control, fatiguing and recovery phase protocol. Results: JHS participants perceived greater fatigue during the protocol compared to a control group and did not recover. Central and peripheral fatigue did not occur in the control group. However, the JHS group showed central fatigue. MEP amplitude increased in the JHS group during the fatiguing protocol (p<0.01) before recovering. Superimposed twitch amplitude increased in the JHS group during the fatiguing protocol and stayed elevated during the recovery phase (p<0.04). Time to peak (TTP) amplitude of the torque generated by the TMS was longer in the JHS group (p<0.05). RMS during MVCs decreased during the fatiguing protocol reaching significance during the recovery phase (p<0.01).Conclusion: JHS participants suffered central but not peripheral fatigue. A modified strength programme to target this is discussed.

Journal article

Alexander C, To M, 2019, Are people with joint hypermobility syndrome slow to strengthen?, Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Vol: 100, Pages: 1243-1250, ISSN: 0003-9993

ObjectivesTo investigate whether the rate of change of muscle strength in people with joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) who have anterior knee pain (AKP) differs when compared to 2 control groups who have AKP and to evaluate the relationship between strength and pain as well as the effect of strength upon activity and knee function.DesignA cohort study, with 3 groups: JHS with AKP, generalized joint hypermobility with AKP (GJH), and normal flexibility with AKP (control group [CG]). Follow-up appointments were performed every 2 weeks for 16 weeks.SettingThe physiotherapy outpatient department within a London (United Kingdom) hospital.ParticipantsA total of 102 people, aged between 18 and 55 years, were recruited between July 2014 and March 2016; 47 JHS, 29 GJH, and 26 CG (N=102). After 16 weeks, 31, 20, and 21 participants completed the study, respectively. Participants were recruited from support groups, a London hospital group and university, local sports centers, and clubs.InterventionsIndividualized leg exercises for 16 weeks.Main Outcome MeasureMuscle torque generated from the lower limb, every 2 weeks for 16 weeks.ResultsThere was no difference in the rate of change of concentric muscle strength between the JHS group and the CG or GJH group (P>.88 and P>.97). There was no difference in the rate of change of eccentric muscle strength between the JHS group and the CG or GJH group (P>.60 and P>.94). However, people with JHS were significantly weaker than the other 2 groups, taking 3 to 4 months to reach the baseline strength of the GJH group.ConclusionPeople with JHS can strengthen at the same rate as other people in pain.

Journal article

Bates AV, Mcgregor AH, Alexander C, 2016, Comparison of prolonged unconstrained standing behaviour in people with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome and people who have normal flexibility, ESMAC, Publisher: Elsevier, ISSN: 1879-2219

Conference paper

To M, Simmonds J, Alexander CM, 2016, Where do people with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome present in secondary care? The prevalence in a general hospital and the challenges of classification, Musculoskeletal Care, Vol: 15, Pages: 3-9, ISSN: 1557-0681

Aim:Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS) is an inherited disorder of the connective tissue and can lead to widespread pain, joint instability and fatigue. In order to understand where patients with musculoskeletal symptoms and JHS present to in secondary care we have established the prevalence of JHS within the pain management service, a general rheumatology clinic and an orthopaedic clinic of a single general hospital.Method:A total of 138 patients attending the pain management service, a general rheumatology clinic and an orthopaedic clinic were surveyed for Joint Hypermobility Syndrome as part of their usual care using the Brighton criteria. Results:The pain management and general rheumatology clinics both demonstrated a similar prevalence of 39.1% and 37.0% respectively. The orthopaedic clinic demonstrated a much lower prevalence of 10.9%. Conclusion:There were a higher number of people with JHS presenting to the pain management and general rheumatology clinics than the orthopaedic clinic. This reflects an appropriate pathway for this multiple joint pathology. The difficulty in classifying people with JHS is discussed as these figures may reflect an over classification of the condition.

Journal article

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