By Injury
By Laura Inverarity, D.O., About.com Guide to Physical Therapy
The musculoskeletal system is formed through the connection of bones, ligaments, cartilage, muscle, and tendons. Each of these structures, however, is susceptible to injury or diseases. Physical therapists use a wide variety of treatments to manage these problems. Here you will learn more about the common medical conditions that are treated by physical therapists, as well as rehabilitation techniques specific to each disorder.
Back Disorders
The back is involved in almost every movement that we make. With so many vulnerable structures, it is easy to see how common back ailments can be. Statistically, four out of five adults experience symptoms of back pain at least once in their lifetime. The good news is that most back disorders can be prevented by incorporating exercise and proper body mechanics into your daily routine.
- Cause and Prevention of Back Pain
- Common Causes of Back Pain
- Herniated Disc
- Lumbar Strain
- Spinal Stenosis
- Whiplash Injuries
- Sciatica
- Piriformis Syndrome
- Cervical Spondylosis
- How Your Spine Works
- Exercises to Prevent Back Pain
- Proper Lifting Techniques
Shoulder Disorders
The shoulder joint is capable of a wider and more varied range of motion than any other joint in the human body. This flexibility comes with a price -- the shoulder joint also is more unstable than the other joints in the body. Dislocation and separation injuries and repetitive motions are common, too.
- Shoulder Anatomy and Injuries
- Shoulder Separation
- Frozen Shoulder
- Biceps Tendonitis
- Biceps Tendon Rupture
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
- Adhesive Capsulitis
- The Rotator Cuff
- Pendulum Exercises
- Rotator Cuff Strengthening
Elbow Disorders
The elbow joint is formed by three bones: the humerus, radius, and ulna. It is an example of a hinge joint, or a joint that moves in only one direction. Elbow injuries can occur in most sports, especially those involving throwing or swinging motions. Sprains, strains, fractures, dislocations, and bursitis are common causes of elbow pain.
Wrist & Hand Disorders
The wrist and hand are small yet complex joints. Because they are used so much in sports, the risk of injury is high. Also, as we age, the joints of our wrists and fingers are often affected by arthritis.
Hip Disorders
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint. The hip is a sturdy joint surrounded by the strong muscles of the thighs and buttocks. Though not as common as in other areas of the body, injuries can occur, usually from wear and tear and overuse injuries. Life-threatening fractures of the hip joint can also occur in the elderly due to bone weakness from osteoporosis.
- Common Causes of Hip Pain
- Groin Strain
- Avascular Necrosis
- Activity Restrictions After Total Hip Replacement
Knee Disorders
Most people are surprised to learn that the knee is the largest joint in the body. Unfortunately, it is also more susceptible to injury than any other joint. Most knee injuries occur during athletic activities. Arthritis also commonly affects the bones of the knee joint as we age.
- The Knee: An All Inclusive Guide
- Knee Anatomy
- Knee Injury and Rehabilitation
- ACL Injuries
- The Unhappy Triad
- Runner's Knee
- Pre-Patellar Bursitis
- Osteoarthritis
- Chondromalacia
- Jumper's Knee
- Patellofemoral Syndrome
- Post Operative Knee Exercises
- Quadricep Strengthening
Ankle & Foot Disorders
As shock absorbers, our feet cushion up to one million pounds of pressure during one hour of strenuous exercise. They also bear up to 1.5 times your bodyweight during walking and running activities. Each foot has 26 bones. The ankle bone and the ends of the two lower leg bones form the ankle joint, which is stabilized and supported by three groups of ligaments. These structures are at increased risk of injury during activities that require jumping as well as excessive running.
Women's Health
Although many health conditions affect both men and women, a number of health issues are specific to females, and some are far more prevalent in women, such as osteoporosis.
Children
Pediatric physical therapy assists in early detection of health problems and uses a wide variety of modalities to treat disorders in kids. Treatments focus on improving gross and fine motor skills, balance and coordination, strength and endurance, as well as cognitive and sensory processing/integration.
Older Adults
As we age, we are more susceptible to certain conditions and disorders that would normally not affect younger people. Our balance becomes more unsteady and therefore the risk of falls increases. Bone weakness also places the elderly at greater risk for broken bones, or fractures. Maintaining an active lifestyle as we age can help reduce disorders associated with aging.
