Category: Articles

The Power of Context: How Nonspecific Factors Influence Physical Therapy Outcomes for Musculoskeletal Pain

B Key Takeaways for Therapists A significant portion of the therapeutic benefit from physical therapy interventions is not due to the specific treatment itself but rather to contextual and nonspecific factors (e.g., patient expectations, therapeutic alliance, and treatment rituals). Manual therapies (mobilization, manipulation, soft tissue techniques) show particularly high nonspecific effects, with up to 88% of pain

Rhe Efficacy of Non-Surgical and Non-Interventional Treatments for Low Back Pain:

Placebo-controlled randomised trials are the best method for evaluating efficacy of treatments. There is a limited but growing evidence base of placebo-controlled randomised trials investigating the analgesic effects of non-surgical and non-interventional treatments for non-specific low back pain. A study from Australia assesses the effectiveness of non-surgical and non-interventional treatments for adults with non-specific low

The Role of Soft Tissue Manipulation in Sarcopenia and Muscle Recovery

Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and function, is a significant health concern, particularly among older adults. It increases the risk of falls, fractures, and overall health decline, placing a substantial financial burden on healthcare systems. Current treatments primarily focus on resistance exercise and nutritional strategies, but these approaches face challenges such as patient

The Effects of Flossing on Joint Range of Motion and Tissue Stiffness

Flossing, a myofascial release (MR) technique, has gained attention for its potential to improve performance-related factors such as range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, and pain relief. This technique involves wrapping a natural rubber floss band around muscles and joints to apply pressure while performing active and passive movements. Recent studies suggest that flossing can

Understanding Neuroinflammation and the Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System: A Perspective on Manual Therapy

By Steven Goldstein Neuroinflammation is a complex and multifaceted topic that continues to evolve as research advances. It is crucial to approach this subject with care, ensuring that the information presented is accurate and avoids perpetuating outdated or misleading narratives. While there are many experts who have contributed significantly to this field, it is important

The Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System in Neuroinflammation and Immune Regulation

Introduction Living organisms constantly interact with their environment through sensory and motor systems, all under the control of the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS generates complex motor commands based on sensory feedback and internal bodily states, ensuring optimal functioning of tissues and organs. This regulation extends to the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and neuroendocrine

Cervical Musculoskeletal Impairments in Migraine and Tension-Type Headache

Neck pain is a common complaint among patients with migraine and tension-type headache (TTH), often leading them to seek cervical treatment. However, the drivers of neck pain in these primary headache disorders are complex, involving headache pathophysiology, local musculoskeletal (MSK) dysfunction, or peripheral sensitivity. An article published in Musculoskeletal Science and Practice synthesizes findings from

Lifestyle Factors and Chronic Pain in Older European Adults

Chronic pain, recognized as a complex biopsychosocial condition, is significantly influenced by social, economic, and lifestyle factors, making it a major global public health issue. But limited knowledge exists on the association between lifestyle factors and pain severity in older adults. A survey evaluated the critical role of modifiable lifestyle factors—such as physical inactivity, sleep

The Role of the Circadian Clock in Tendon Health and Tendinopathy

Introduction Tendons, which connect muscles to bones, are prone to overuse injuries known as tendinopathy, affecting approximately 16.5 million people annually in the U.S. Despite being a significant clinical and socio-economic issue, the exact mechanisms behind tendinopathy remain unclear. Recent research suggests that the circadian clock, which regulates many biological processes in a 24-hour cycle,

Noisy knee

U A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM) provided fresh insights into the prevalence of knee crepitus and its implications for structural knee pathology. Led by researcher Jamon Couch, the systematic review delves into how common knee crepitus is among the general population and those with specific knee conditions, and what