Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 30, 2026

Evaluation of Respiratory Muscle Activation Using Respiratory Motor Control Assessment (RMCA) in Individuals with Chronic Spinal Cord Injury
Published on: July 19, 2013
Classification of musculoskeletal spinal conditions*
Abstract:
The aim of this article is to present and discuss the classification of musculoskeletal spinal conditions. The major classifications presented are muscle, joint, and nerve root. Many different conditions are presented under each of these major classifications with emphasis on those conditions commonly seen in a physical therapy clinic. The clinical picture of each condition is presented showing the significant findings in the history, structural, mobility, neurological, and palpation exams. Treatment suggestions are presented to help clarify the differences between conditions, and to stress the importance of evaluation and classification before planning treatment. The author also stresses the interrelationship and progressive nature of certain conditions.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1979;1(1):3-15.
Related Concept Videos
Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
Classification of Skeletal Muscle Relaxants
Peripherally acting skeletal muscle relaxants interfere with the neurotransmission at the neuromuscular end plate to induce paralysis during...
Functional Classification of Joints
The functional classification of joints is determined by the amount of mobility between the adjacent bones. Joints are functionally classified as a synarthrosis or immobile joint, an amphiarthrosis or slightly moveable joint, or as a diarthrosis, a freely moveable joint. Fibrous and cartilaginous joints can be functionally classified as either synarthroses or amphiarthroses, whereas all synovial joints are classified as diarthroses.
Synarthrosis
An immobile...
Classification of Bones
Long and Short Bones
The appendicular skeleton, particularly the upper and lower limbs, is primarily made of long and short bones. The long...
Muscles of the Vertebral Column
Superficial Layer:
The superficial layer consists primarily of the splenius muscles, which include the splenius capitis and splenius cervicis. These muscles are mainly responsible for the head and cervical spine movements, including extension, rotation, and lateral bending. The splenius capitis...
Naming Skeletal Muscles
The key factors used in naming muscles include: