Musculoskeletal rehabilitation

Musculoskeletal problems are common, disabling, and cause great suffering in older adults. Rehabilitation services are frequently indicated and can usually be offered in an outpatient setting. The role of the physician is to make an accurate diagnosis, recognize disability, and refer for rehabilitation services when indicated. There are many diagnostic tests available to assist the physician, but none is as useful and practical as the office examination, including the functional history. Treatment goals with musculoskeletal conditions often are modest and include reduced pain and improved function. Frequently, conditions can flare up or persist in smoldering forms, requiring recurrent interactions with the rehabilitation team. The primary care physician can make use of many of the following resources available to treat musculoskeletal pain and limitations: exercise, medication, physical modalities, adaptive equipment, and arthritis education, including self-help and support groups. Used in combination, these treatments can contribute to increased well-being. The key for the physician is knowing that these options exist and being familiar with their use.