Year: 2020
Type: article
Abstract: At-home exercises for 4 common musculoskeletal complaintsThis pictorial review can help you advise patients on how to reduce pain and increase ROM, strength, and balance following acute injury or in chronic impairment.T he mainstay of treatment for many musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints is physical or occupational therapy.But often an individual's underlying biomechanical issue is one that can be easily addressed with a home exercise plan, and, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, patients may wish to avoid in-person physical therapy.This article describes the rationale for, and methods of providing, home exercises for several MSK conditions commonly seen in the primary care setting. General rehabilitation principles: First things firstWith basic MSK complaints, focus on controlling pain and swelling before undertaking restoration of function.Tailor pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic options to the patient's needs, using first-line modalities such as ice and compression to reduce inflammation, and prescribing scheduled doses of an anti-inflammatory medication to help with both pain and inflammation.Once pain is sufficiently controlled, have patients begin basic rehabilitation with simple range-of-motion exercises that move the injured region through normal patterns, as tolerated.Later, the patient can progress through more specific exercises to return the injured region to full functional capacity.Explain to patients that it takes about 7 to 10 days of consistent care to decrease inflammation, but that they should begin prescribed exercises once they are able to tolerate them.Plan a follow-up visit in 2 to 3 weeks to check on the patient's response to prescribed care. Which is better, ice or heat?Ice and heat are both commonly used to treat MSK injuries and pain, although scrutiny of the use of either intervention has increased.Despite the widespread use of these modalities, there is little evidence to support their effect on patient
Source: The Journal of Family Practice
DOI: 10.12788/jfp.0109
Author: Jaworski
Institution: University of Chicago
Language: English
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W3146872305