Physical therapy for musculoskeletal syndromes

Judgments about the effectiveness of physical therapy in the treatment of musculoskeletal syndromes depend on the findings of the physical therapist's examination and the fit between the clinical problem and the intervention. Using a model of the process of disablement, this article outlines the theoretical basis for a physical therapist's role in remediating the impairments and functional limitations associated with musculoskeletal conditions. The research basis for the application of particular physical therapy procedures, including physical agents and mechanical modalities, to typical patient problems is presented.