The Ever Evolving Clinical Examination Process

It's been a little over 2 years since physical therapists were mentally challenged in a guest editorial suggesting the relevance of a musculoskeletal regional interdependence examination model.  If you are not familiar,"regional interdependence" is most definitely not referring to something like the Michigan Wolverines and the Ohio State University Buckeyes having any sort of interdependence even though they are in the same geographical region.  It's just not going to happen.

From a musculoskeletal perspective, implementing regional interdependence into the examination and treatment process entails a broader clinical thinking model.  The broadness is captured by acknowledging parts of the body above and below the main complaint area.  In some situations, recognizing the relationship between anatomical parts may help with improving outcomes.

Physical Therapy Journal (January 2010) has a research report focusing on regional interdependence.  Is there a way to potentially identify which patients with shoulder pain will have a more favorable response to treatment intervention when cervicothoracic manipulation is included?

If this topic is of interest to you, on February 20 from 8-10:45 am Scott Burns, PT, Josh Cleland, PT, and Paul Mintken, PT will be presenting "Regional Interdependence of the Upper Quarter" during the American Physical Therapy Association Combined Sections Meeting.

~Selena