Our musculoskeletal systems enable our bodies to move and function, however, many people experience musculoskeletal disorders which are debilitating, painful and impact their quality of life.
Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists, like Inline Physio’s very own Tony McNamee, are experts in the assessment and management of musculoskeletal disorders.
In this blog, we explain what musculoskeletal disorders are and share some examples.
We also discuss how a Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist can help, as well as introduce you to our very own Brisbane-based specialist musculoskeletal physiotherapist.
What are Musculoskeletal Disorders?
Our musculoskeletal system is comprised of our muscles, joints, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, soft connective tissues and bones (the skeleton), and musculoskeletal disorders are ones which affect that system.
Some injuries to this system are temporary and can be rehabilitated within a certain timeframe, whereas other disorders will require lifelong treatment and management.
Short-term conditions can include:
- fractures,
- sprains and strains, and
- back and neck pain.
Some longer lasting conditions include:
- chronic joint disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, and
- muscle conditions like sarcopenia – where muscle mass and strength are lost over time.
Typically, people living with a musculoskeletal disorder experience pain and limitations to their dexterity and mobility.
Treatment of Musculoskeletal Disorders
While treatment of these disorders will be personalised and depend on the condition, it may include:
- Mobilisation,
- Manipulation,
- Advice,
- Education,
- Exercise Prescription,
- Massage,
- Dry Needling, and
- Electrotherapy
What is a Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist?
Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists have extended knowledge and training in the assessment and management of movement disorders of the musculoskeletal system.
Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists:
- Are particularly involved in more complex and/or chronic conditions that may not have responded well to previous treatment.
- Will provide assessments and reports to third-party insurance companies/work cover for difficult patients or those who have not responded to treatment.
- Mentor/ educate less experienced physiotherapist
By definition, Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists specialise in different areas of the body.
In order to be awarded the title of ‘Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist’, they must also be Fellows of the Australian College of Physiotherapy (SACP).
Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist Brisbane
At Inline Physio, we are proud to have a Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist as part of our Brisbane team.
Tony McNamee FACP, specialises in spinal disorders (neck and back pain), and has a particular interest in whiplash associated disorders (WAD).
Tony founded Physiotherapy Sports and Rehab Clinic in 1988 and we are so glad to have such an experienced physiotherapist now based at our Ashgrove and Moorooka clinics – just a few kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD.
Would you like make an appointment with our Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist?
Click here, or call our Ashgrove clinic today on (07) 3366 7566 or our Moorooka clinic on (07) 3892 5287.