There are many different therapies available to treat various problems involving the musculoskeletal system. MSK and physical therapy startups can include physical therapy, laser therapy, water therapy, and Neuromuscular treatments. The therapy goals vary from patient to patient, depending on the specific problem or disease. Patients are encouraged to be actively involved in the process. The goal of rehab is to help patients return to their highest level of function and quality of life.
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Physical therapy
There are many ways in which physical therapy can benefit the musculoskeletal system. Muscle imbalances are a common cause of movement dysfunctions. Compensation can occur at the joints distal to the shoulder when a muscle group is weak or tight. One of the most common tests of flexibility for the lower extremity is the 90/90 straight leg raise. This test focuses on the hamstring muscles on the posterior aspect of the thigh.
Exercises designed to improve posture and strengthen weak areas of the body can help prevent injuries and maintain a healthy lifestyle. These exercises also increase circulation to the affected area, which is especially helpful if the pain limits mobility. While physical therapy isn’t the only benefit, it is one of the most common conservative treatments. If used appropriately, physical therapy can improve mobility, reduce pain, and provide a less expensive alternative to surgery or drugs.
Laser therapy
There are many ways to benefit from laser therapy for the musculoskeletal system. Laser treatment increases bone mineral density, improves blood flow, and helps promote the formation of new bone materials. Laser therapy also benefits the skeletal system and many pathologies, including myositis, osteoporosis, traumatic injuries, and overuse and stress fractures. In addition to promoting bone healing and regrowth, laser therapy can improve bone quality and decrease the need for pain medication.
The high-energy wavelengths of the laser stimulate the immune system by stimulating the production of immunoglobulins and lymphocytes. The laser also activates the enzyme flavomononucleotide, which triggers the production of ATP, a major carrier of energy in cells. It increases the production of new capillaries in damaged tissue and speeds up the healing process. The laser light also promotes cellular repair and regeneration, reducing the risk of scar tissue and inflammation.
Water therapy
Water is a buoyant medium that reduces the effects of gravity on the body. It increases range of motion, decreases swelling and joint tenderness, and improves cardiovascular function. It also reduces stress and edema. The fluid movements of water are a great way to stretch muscles and joints, including the lower back, hips, knees, ankles, and shoulders. Compared to a land environment, water can eliminate body weight forces more rapidly than any other medium.
One of the main reasons water is a beneficial form of therapy is that the molecules in water flow in currents. These currents relieve pressure on joints and promote circulation. In addition, aquatic gloves and water paddles are useful tools for creating gentle currents. A variety of other techniques can be used to achieve similar effects. While the therapeutic effects of water vary, some forms are better than others for specific conditions.
Neuromuscular treatments
Neuromuscular treatments are a kind of physical therapy designed to ease muscle pain, improve circulation throughout the body, and promote strength and flexibility. It targets the nervous, muscular, and skeletal systems to alleviate aches and pains in the body. A pulled muscle, for example, is a common type of acute injury. Other causes of muscle pain include overwork, improper movements, and sudden impacts. These can all affect your overall range of motion and strength, which can limit your ability to perform activities of daily living.
Several methods of neuromuscular therapy are used to alleviate pain. Most of these techniques involve the manual application of digital pressure and strokes. They are typically applied with the thumb and finger. Digital contacts are designed to provide a therapeutic or diagnostic objective, depending on the ailment. Although neuromuscular techniques have a wide variety of uses, they are an excellent way to ease pain in some settings, including physical therapy, rehabilitation, and chiropractic care.
Exercise
Therapeutic exercise benefits the musculoskeletal system in some ways. This exercise includes strength training, endurance, targeted muscle strengthening, breathing, and range-of-motion exercises. It helps the body support joints and prevents problems like osteoarthritis, which occurs when cartilage breaks down, and excessive rubbing occurs. In addition, exercise increases synovial fluid, which reduces friction during movement.
Research has also shown that the musculoskeletal system is a key contributor to cardiovascular health. Studies have linked musculoskeletal fitness to decreased risk factors for coronary heart disease, improved glucose tolerance, and increased quality of life. As individual ages, daily activities can become more difficult, resulting in falls and institutional care. Exercise therapy helps maintain muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility, improving overall health and quality of life.
