Above-Knee Amputation (Transfemoral Amputation)
Lower-limb amputation is a surgical procedure performed to remove a limb that has been damaged due to trauma, disease, or congenital defect.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy is an irritation of the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendon pain is one of the most common types of pain felt behind the heel and up the back of the ankle when walking or running.
Acromioclavicular Joint (AC Joint) Injuries
Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Injury is a term used to describe an injury to the top of the shoulder where the front of the shoulder blade (acromion) attaches to the collarbone (clavicle).
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition. It damages brain cells and affects how we speak, think, move, and deal with other people. It can lead to a decline in memory and the ability to perform daily activities.
Ankle Fracture
An ankle fracture occurs when a bone on 1 or both sides of the ankle is partially or completely broken. Most ankle fractures are caused by twisting injuries and falls, or injuries experienced during sports or play. Your physical therapist will work with you to safely put weight on your ankle, and begin treatment to help you return to your normal activity.
Ankle Impingement
Ankle impingement occurs when either soft or bony tissues are compressed within the ankle joint at the extreme end of a motion, such as pointing the foot sharply downward
Ankle Sprain
Ankle sprains are common injuries that occur when the foot twists or turns beyond its normal range of movement, causing the ligaments of the ankle to overstretch or tear.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory disease that causes pain and stiffness in the spine, pelvis, and other joints, like the hips, knees, feet, and shoulders. Physical therapists help people with AS maintain productive lives by working with them to increase their strength, muscle flexibility, and joint mobility, and to improve their posture.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear
An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is an injury to the knee commonly affecting athletes, such as soccer players, basketball players, skiers, and gymnasts. Once an ACL tear has been diagnosed, you will work with your surgeon and physical therapist to decide if you should have surgery, or if you can recover without surgery.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability. It results in social, communication, and behavior challenges. Symptoms of ASD vary from mild to severe. Physical therapists help children with ASD gain their full potential.
Balance Problems
Balance problems make it difficult for people to maintain stable and upright positions when standing, walking, and even sitting. Physical therapists develop individualized physical activity plans to help improve the strength, stability, and mobility of people with balance problems.
Bed Sore (Pressure Ulcer)
A pressure ulcer, sometimes called a “bed sore,” is a skin injury that usually happens when people are very ill for a long period of time and are not able to change their position in a bed or a chair. Physical therapists are skilled in wound care.
Bell’s Palsy
Bell’s palsy is a form of temporary facial paralysis that can affect a person’s daily function, communication with others, self-esteem, and quality of life.
Below-Knee Amputation (Transtibial Amputation)
Transtibial amputation, or below-knee amputation, is a surgical procedure performed to fully remove a lower limb that has been damaged due to trauma, congenital defect, or disease.
Benign Hypermobility Joint Syndrome
Benign hypermobility joint syndrome (BHJS) is a hereditary disorder of the connective tissues (ligaments) that results in joints becoming loose throughout the body (hypermobility). Physical therapists help those with the syndrome develop strategies to increase joint stability, reduce pain, and improve function.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is an inner-ear problem that causes short periods of dizziness when your head is moved in certain positions.
Biceps Tendinitis
Biceps tendinitis is a common cause of shoulder pain and impingement (compression of tissue with movement), often developing in people who perform repetitive, overhead movements.
Biceps Tendon Rupture
A biceps tendon rupture occurs when the biceps muscle is torn from the bone at the point of attachment (tendon) to the shoulder or elbow.
Blount’s Disease
Blount’s disease is a growth disorder affecting the shin bone, also called the tibia, and is characterized by the lower leg turning inward, causing the leg to appear bowed below the knee.
Bunion (Hallux Valgus)
A bunion (hallux valgus) is a large bump on the side of the foot that develops at the base of the big toe.
Calf Strain
A calf strain is an injury to the muscles in the back of your leg, below the knee.
Cancer
Cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the body that causes destruction of normal, healthy cells. Cancer, and the treatments for it, can cause physical problems such as pain, numbness, swelling, weakness, loss of balance, and difficulty moving or walking. Physical therapists help people manage cancer-related problems, improve their health and functional abilities, and return to work and other activities.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition of the wrist and hand that can affect the use of the whole arm. Fortunately for most people who develop CTS, physical therapist treatment can often relieve pain and numbness and restore normal use of the hand, wrist, and arm without the need for surgery.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a broad term used to describe the effects on the development of motor skills caused by nonprogressive injuries to the developing brain. Physical therapists are experts in helping people with CP improve their physical functions. They can help them stay active, and healthy, and perform day-to-day tasks such as walking, operating a wheelchair, and getting in or out of a wheelchair to and from a bathtub, bed, or car.
Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical radiculopathy is often referred to as a pinched nerve in the neck. It is characterized by radiating pain from the neck to the shoulder, shoulder blade, arm, or hand. A physical therapist can help alleviate the acute neck and arm symptoms that result from the condition, as well as improve general strength and function. Most cases of cervical radiculopathy are resolved with physical therapy and do not require surgery.
Childhood Leukemia
Leukemia, a cancer of blood-forming cells, is the most common cancer diagnosis in children. Physical therapists help children with childhood leukemia maintain strength and function, and reduce some of the effects of cancer treatment.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition categorized by generalized fatigue that persists for 6 months or longer, and is more intense than would be expected based on the effort a person regularly exerts. Because fatigue, pain, and weakness are all associated with CFS, physical therapist treatment will likely focus on improving short-term endurance and strength.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) causes breathing difficulty and leads to other systemic problems. Physical therapists can work with your pulmonary rehabilitation team or with you individually to help improve your exercise capacity, overall strength, and health and quality of life.
Chronic Pain Syndromes
Chronic pain is a condition that occurs when the brain concludes there is a threat to a person’s well-being based on the many signals it receives from the body. This condition can and often does occur independently of any actual body tissue damage (due to injury or illness), and beyond normal tissue healing time. Physical therapists work together with chronic pain patients to lessen their pain, and restore their activity to the highest possible levels
Collarbone Fracture (Clavicle Fracture)
Clavicle fracture is a common shoulder injury, making up 4% of all fracture types and 35% of all shoulder injuries.
Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome is a serious medical condition that occurs when there is increased pressure in the muscular compartment of the limbs. Physical therapy can be effective to help identify the factors that may influence the development of compartment syndrome.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
CRPS generally arises from a minor injury, such as a scrape, sprain, or strain and can result in the syndrome that is defined as being complex, regional (symptoms are generally in 1 region of the body), and painful. A multi-disciplinary approach to treatment is currently recommended, consisting of care from physicians, psychologists, and physical therapists.
Concussion
Concussion is a traumatic brain injury that can cause lasting effects on brain tissue and change the chemical balance of the brain.
Container Baby Syndrome
A “container baby” is a newborn baby or young infant who is placed in a container, such as a car seat or stroller, for an excessive amount of time in a given day. A physical therapist can design an individualized treatment plan to address the problems of a container baby, and help build strength, restore movement, and address skeletal deformities.
Core Muscle Injury (Sports Hernia)
Core muscle injury, often misleadingly called a “sports hernia,” is a condition that mainly affects athletes who play soccer, hockey, football, and rugby, and who run track. It is more common in males than females.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common nerve compression occurring in the arm. (Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common.)
Cuboid Syndrome
Cuboid syndrome is a condition caused by a problem with the cuboid bone, producing pain on the outer side, and possibly underside, of the foot.
De Quervain’s Tendinitis
De Quervain’s (dih-kwer-VAINS) tendinitis is a condition that causes pain and tenderness at the thumb side of the wrist, at the base of the thumb and forearm. Your physical therapist will review and evaluate how you use your hand and wrist for functional activity. Your physical therapist will try to help you identify what activities or positions that you use that may contribute to the problem
Degenerative Disk Disease
Degenerative disk disease (DDD) can be one cause of back and neck pain. However, DDD is part of the natural aging process, like getting gray hair, and in many cases is not painful at all.
Developmental Coordination Disorder
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a movement (motor) skill (or neuro-developmental) disorder unrelated to physical disorders such as cerebral palsy, or to intelligence disorders. Physical therapists work with children with DCD to improve muscle strength, coordination, and balance, and help them develop skills to improve their daily activities and quality of life.
Developmental Delay
Developmental delay describes the behavior of young children whose development in key mental and physical areas is slower than other children of the same age. The delay can be in any of a number of areas of development, such as movement (motor control), speaking, thinking, playing, or self-care skills.
Diabetes
In diabetes, the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Physical therapists help people with diabetes improve or avoid related problems, and can teach sedentary people how to add physical activity to their daily lives in safe, effective, and enjoyable ways.
Diastasis Rectus Abdominis
Diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) is a condition in which the 2 sides of the abdominal muscle separate, as the tissue connecting them stretches.
Discoid Meniscus
A discoid meniscus is an abnormally shaped meniscus (cartilage that cushions the bones of the knee) present in 1% to 3% of people born in the United States. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a plan to help achieve your specific goals.
Dizziness
Dizziness is a common problem, especially among older adults. It can cause a spinning sensation, a general feeling of unsteadiness, or can be described as “lightheadedness.”
Down Syndrome
Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic disorder in which babies are born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. Physical therapists work with individuals with Down syndrome from infancy through adulthood to help them function at their maximum potential and lead healthy, productive lives.
Elbow Bursitis
Elbow (olecranon) bursitis, commonly known as “baker’s elbow,” “student’s elbow,” or “Popeye elbow,” involves swelling at the tip of the elbow, on the back of the arm.
Elbow Fracture
An elbow fracture is a bone break that occurs in the middle of the arm, in the area of the elbow joint.
Falls
Falls and a fear of falling can diminish your ability to lead a full and independent life. Although 1 in every 4 older adults falls each year, falling is not a part of normal aging. Based on the evaluation results, your physical therapist will design a plan that is tailored to your needs. Your treatment plan may include balance training.
Female Athlete Triad
Female athlete triad (triad) is a syndrome that can manifest across a broad spectrum, but involves the interrelationship between 3 measurable factors: (1) how much energy a woman has available to use for activity (energy availability), (2) the quality and strength of her bones (bone mineral density), and (3) her menstrual cycle.
Femur Fracture
A femur fracture is a break, crack, or crush injury of the thigh bone. Your physical therapist will design a specific treatment program to speed your recovery. This program includes exercises and treatments you should do at home to help you return to your normal life and activities.
Fibromyalgia
Extensive research supports the use of education, aerobic exercise, and strengthening exercise to help improve fibromyalgia. But fear of pain often keeps people from beginning an exercise program. Your physical therapist can help you understand and manage your pain, reduce your fatigue, and improve your function and quality of life.
Frailty and Debility
Frailty is a syndrome of overall body weakness resulting in a loss of strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance. Debility is the loss of the ability to move around normally, or productively, in one’s home and community. Physical therapists help individuals experiencing frailty and debility restore their strength, flexibility, endurance, balance, and overall mobility, reduce their chronic pain, and improve their daily function.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Adhesive capsulitis is the stiffening of the shoulder due to scar tissue, which results in painful movement and loss of motion.
Gait Dysfunctions
Gait dysfunctions are changes in your normal walking pattern, often related to a disease or abnormality in different areas of the body. Physical therapists are experts at identifying the root causes of gait dysfunctions, and designing treatments that restore gait.
Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Medial epicondylitis (commonly called golfer’s elbow or thrower’s elbow) is a condition that develops when the tendons on the inside of the forearm become irritated, inflamed, and painful due to repetitive use of the hand, wrist, forearm and elbow.
Greater Trochanteric Bursitis
Greater trochanteric bursitis (GTB) is one of the most common causes of hip pain.
Groin Strain
A groin strain is an injury to the groin—the area of the body where the abdomen meets the leg and the inner thigh muscles attach to the pubic bone.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an autoimmune disorder that affects nerves and how they function in the body.
Hamstring Injuries
A hamstring strain injury occurs when 1 or more of the 3 hamstring muscles or tendons (at the back of the thigh) is torn, either partially or completely.
Headaches
Pain of any type that occurs in any part of the head is called a headache. Most headaches are harmless and resolve on their own, although severe headaches that recur frequently can affect your ability to do your daily activities and can reduce your quality of life. Physical therapists can help determine the type of headache you have and are experts in managing pain from tension-type headaches.
Head-Shape Flatness in Infants: Plagiocephaly, Brachycephaly, and Scaphocephaly
Plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and scaphocephaly are skull deformations caused by an infant lying in 1 position for too long. These conditions are also known as “flat head syndrome.”
Herniated Disk
Herniated disks are most common in the neck (cervical spine) and low back (lumbar spine). In the low back, disks may become damaged by excessive wear and tear or an injury.
Hip Bursitis
Hip bursitis is a painful condition that affects 15% of women and 8.5% of men of all ages in the United States.
Hip Impingement (Femoroacetabular Impingement)
Hip impingement involves a change in the shape of the surface of the hip joint that predisposes it to damage, resulting in stiffness and pain.
Hip Labral Tears
Hip labral tears occur when the labrum, a band of cartilage surrounding the hip joint, is injured. Labral injuries can be the result of trauma, such as a fall or a car accident, but are most commonly caused by repetitive stress to the hip joint. Individuals who participate in sports such as hockey, soccer, or long-distance running—which require extremes of motion, repetitive twisting, or sharp movements like cutting—are most often diagnosed with labral tears.
HIV Disease and AIDS
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that invades the body and attacks the immune system, leaving it vulnerable to further infection by microbes, bacteria, viruses, and fungi that cause various diseases and cancers. In 3% of that population, the disease has progressed to its later stages, and has developed into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Physical therapists help people with HIV address their problems and stay active, using therapeutic exercise, electrotherapeutic machines, and hands-on treatment techniques called “manual therapy” to restore strength, flexibility, endurance, and balance.
Hyperkyphosis
Hyperkyphosis is a spinal deformity that occurs when the natural forward-curving shape of the upper back becomes excessive. ain.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS or “IT Band Syndrome”)
Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), or “IT band syndrome” is one of the most common causes of knee pain, particularly in individuals involved in endurance sports. It accounts for up to 12% of running injuries and up to 24% of cycling injuries. ITBS is typically managed conservatively through physical therapy and temporary activity modification.
Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is any undesired leakage of urine that can occur during the day or night.
Infant Brachial Plexus Injury (Erb’s Palsy, Klumpke’s Palsy)
The brachial plexus is a network (bundle) of nerves in the shoulder and under the arm. The network is composed of the nerves that carry signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, hand, and fingers.
Infant Prematurity
Premature or preterm birth occurs at least 3 weeks before a baby’s due date. A physical therapist is an important family treatment partner for any child born prematurely. Physical therapy should begin as soon as possible after the birth, when the baby’s health status allows it.
Inner Ear Trauma
Trauma—such as hitting your head in a fall or injuring your neck in a car accident—can damage the structures of your inner ear. Physical therapist treatment may include specialized exercises to decrease or eliminate dizziness, Improve balance, and restore clear vision when the head is moving
Jaw Fracture (Temporomandibular Joint Fracture)
A temporomandibular joint (TMJ) facture occurs when the mandible and/or temporal bone is broken near or through the TMJ, the joint connecting the jaw bone to the skull.
Knee Bursitis
Knee bursitis (also called prepatellar or infrapatellar bursitis) occurs when 1 or more of the many bursae (fluid-filled sacs) becomes damaged, irritated, or inflamed. Physical therapists treat individuals with knee bursitis to reduce their pain, swelling, stiffness, and any associated weakness in the knee or leg.
Knee Pain
Knee pain can be caused by disease or injury. Knee pain can restrict movement, affect muscle control in the sore leg, and reduce the strength and endurance of the muscles that support the knee.
Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Sprain
Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) sprain occurs when the ligament on the outer side of the knee is overstretched. A physical therapist treats LCL sprains to reduce pain, swelling, stiffness, and any associated weakness in the knee or lower extremity.
Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease (LCPD)
Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease (LCPD), a hip disorder seen only in children, results from a disruption of blood flow to the head (or “ball”) of the long bone of the leg (the femur).
Low Back Pain
At any given time, about 25% of people in the United States report having low back pain within the past 3 months. Your physical therapist can help you improve or restore mobility and reduce low back pain—in many cases, without expensive surgery or prescription drugs.
Lower Extremity Stress Fractures
Lower extremity stress fractures are fractures of the bones in the lower legs or feet that occur with repeated activities.
Lumbar Radiculopathy and Sciatica
Lumbar radiculopathy (also known as sciatica or radiculitis) is a condition that occurs when a nerve in your low back is injured, pinched, or compressed, causing pain or other symptoms that can extend from the low back to the hip, leg, or foot.
Lymphedema
Lymphedema is swelling generally in the arms or legs due to a blockage in your lymphatic system. Your physical therapist will serve as an important member of your health care team and will work closely with you to design a treatment program to help control the swelling and meet your goals for returning to your activities.
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injury
The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is the most commonly damaged ligament in the knee.
Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) Injury
Depending on the severity of medial patellofemoral injury, treatment may involve surgical reconstruction, followed by physical therapy. Physical therapists design treatment programs for individuals with MPFL injuries to help them gently restore their knee strength and function.
Meniscal Tear
Meniscal tears are common injuries to the cartilage of the knee that can affect athletes and nonathletes alike.
Meralgia Parasthetica (Bernhardt-Roth Syndrome)
Meralgia parasthetica, or Bernhardt-Roth syndrome, describes a condition in which numbness, tingling, or burning pain is felt in the outer portion of the thigh. No matter what the cause, a physical therapist can implement treatments to help manage your symptoms.
Multidirectional Instability (MDI) of the Shoulder
Shoulder instability is a common injury among people participating in contact and noncontact athletic activities.
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, usually progressive, disease that primarily affects young adults. Physical therapists help people with MS regain and maintain strength, flexibility, and general fitness, and to live active, productive lives.
Muscular Dystrophies in Children
Muscular dystrophies include several genetic disorders that result in progressive muscle weakness and a loss of muscle mass, often termed muscle “wasting.” Physical therapists design individualized treatment programs to help children with muscular dystrophy reach their full potential.
Neck Pain
Neck pain is pain felt in the back of the neck – the upper spine area, just below the head. When certain nerves are affected, the pain can extend beyond the back of the neck to areas such as the upper back, shoulder, and arm.
Obesity
Obesity is a condition caused by the accumulation of excessive body fat. Nearly 100 million Americans are obese or overweight. Obesity is a worldwide epidemic. Physical therapists are experts in physical exercise, and can develop individualized physical activity plans for individuals who are overweight or obese to manage weight, prevent the development of obesity, or combat its effects.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Osgood-Schlatter disease is an overuse injury causing pain in the knee area. OS most often develops because of excessive stress to the front of the knee during periods of rapid bone growth. A visible boney growth may appear just below the kneecap. Because teens typically experience the highest rate of bone growth, this age group is most affected by OS. Physical therapists help people with OS ease their pain, increase their muscle strength, and restore their function and movement.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and usually is caused by the deterioration of a joint. Physical therapist treatment has proven to be an effective treatment for OA, and may help you avoid surgery and use of prescription painkillers.
Osteoarthritis of the Hip
Hip osteoarthritis (hip OA) is the inflammation and wearing away of the cartilage of the hip joint. It can develop at any age, although it is more commonly diagnosed in older adults. Hip OA can make everyday activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, difficult.
Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Osteoarthritis of the knee (knee OA) is a progressive disease causing inflammation and degeneration of the knee joint that worsens over time.
Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder
Shoulder osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition that occurs when the cartilage that lines the sides of the shoulder joint is worn or torn away. When someone develops shoulder pain, the first recommended treatment is physical therapy.
Osteoarthritis of the Spine
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the spine is a condition that usually occurs with aging and is typically diagnosed after age 50.
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a condition that involves damage to the cartilage and underlying bone within a joint. OCD may be caused by repetitive trauma or from a single traumatic episode. If identified early, OCD is a condition that can be effectively treated by a physical therapist.
Osteopenia (Low Bone Mass)
Osteopenia, now called low bone mass, is a term used to describe lower-than-normal bone density or thickness. A physical therapist can help you prevent and treat low bone mass at any age by prescribing the specific amount and type of exercise that best builds and maintains strong bones.
Above-Knee Amputation (Transfemoral Amputation)
Lower-limb amputation is a surgical procedure performed to remove a limb that has been damaged due to trauma, disease, or congenital defect.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy is an irritation of the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendon pain is one of the most common types of pain felt behind the heel and up the back of the ankle when walking or running.
Acromioclavicular Joint (AC Joint) Injuries
Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Injury is a term used to describe an injury to the top of the shoulder where the front of the shoulder blade (acromion) attaches to the collarbone (clavicle).
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition. It damages brain cells and affects how we speak, think, move, and deal with other people. It can lead to a decline in memory and the ability to perform daily activities.
Ankle Fracture
An ankle fracture occurs when a bone on 1 or both sides of the ankle is partially or completely broken. Most ankle fractures are caused by twisting injuries and falls, or injuries experienced during sports or play. Your physical therapist will work with you to safely put weight on your ankle, and begin treatment to help you return to your normal activity.
Ankle Impingement
Ankle impingement occurs when either soft or bony tissues are compressed within the ankle joint at the extreme end of a motion, such as pointing the foot sharply downward
Ankle Sprain
Ankle sprains are common injuries that occur when the foot twists or turns beyond its normal range of movement, causing the ligaments of the ankle to overstretch or tear.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory disease that causes pain and stiffness in the spine, pelvis, and other joints, like the hips, knees, feet, and shoulders. Physical therapists help people with AS maintain productive lives by working with them to increase their strength, muscle flexibility, and joint mobility, and to improve their posture.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear
An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is an injury to the knee commonly affecting athletes, such as soccer players, basketball players, skiers, and gymnasts. Once an ACL tear has been diagnosed, you will work with your surgeon and physical therapist to decide if you should have surgery, or if you can recover without surgery.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability. It results in social, communication, and behavior challenges. Symptoms of ASD vary from mild to severe. Physical therapists help children with ASD gain their full potential.
Balance Problems
Balance problems make it difficult for people to maintain stable and upright positions when standing, walking, and even sitting. Physical therapists develop individualized physical activity plans to help improve the strength, stability, and mobility of people with balance problems.
Bed Sore (Pressure Ulcer)
A pressure ulcer, sometimes called a “bed sore,” is a skin injury that usually happens when people are very ill for a long period of time and are not able to change their position in a bed or a chair. Physical therapists are skilled in wound care.
Bell’s Palsy
Bell’s palsy is a form of temporary facial paralysis that can affect a person’s daily function, communication with others, self-esteem, and quality of life.
Below-Knee Amputation (Transtibial Amputation)
Transtibial amputation, or below-knee amputation, is a surgical procedure performed to fully remove a lower limb that has been damaged due to trauma, congenital defect, or disease.
Benign Hypermobility Joint Syndrome
Benign hypermobility joint syndrome (BHJS) is a hereditary disorder of the connective tissues (ligaments) that results in joints becoming loose throughout the body (hypermobility). Physical therapists help those with the syndrome develop strategies to increase joint stability, reduce pain, and improve function.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is an inner-ear problem that causes short periods of dizziness when your head is moved in certain positions.
Biceps Tendinitis
Biceps tendinitis is a common cause of shoulder pain and impingement (compression of tissue with movement), often developing in people who perform repetitive, overhead movements.
Biceps Tendon Rupture
A biceps tendon rupture occurs when the biceps muscle is torn from the bone at the point of attachment (tendon) to the shoulder or elbow.
Blount’s Disease
Blount’s disease is a growth disorder affecting the shin bone, also called the tibia, and is characterized by the lower leg turning inward, causing the leg to appear bowed below the knee.
Bunion (Hallux Valgus)
A bunion (hallux valgus) is a large bump on the side of the foot that develops at the base of the big toe.
Calf Strain
A calf strain is an injury to the muscles in the back of your leg, below the knee.
Cancer
Cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the body that causes destruction of normal, healthy cells. Cancer, and the treatments for it, can cause physical problems such as pain, numbness, swelling, weakness, loss of balance, and difficulty moving or walking. Physical therapists help people manage cancer-related problems, improve their health and functional abilities, and return to work and other activities.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition of the wrist and hand that can affect the use of the whole arm. Fortunately for most people who develop CTS, physical therapist treatment can often relieve pain and numbness and restore normal use of the hand, wrist, and arm without the need for surgery.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a broad term used to describe the effects on the development of motor skills caused by nonprogressive injuries to the developing brain. Physical therapists are experts in helping people with CP improve their physical functions. They can help them stay active, and healthy, and perform day-to-day tasks such as walking, operating a wheelchair, and getting in or out of a wheelchair to and from a bathtub, bed, or car.
Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical radiculopathy is often referred to as a pinched nerve in the neck. It is characterized by radiating pain from the neck to the shoulder, shoulder blade, arm, or hand. A physical therapist can help alleviate the acute neck and arm symptoms that result from the condition, as well as improve general strength and function. Most cases of cervical radiculopathy are resolved with physical therapy and do not require surgery.
Childhood Leukemia
Leukemia, a cancer of blood-forming cells, is the most common cancer diagnosis in children. Physical therapists help children with childhood leukemia maintain strength and function, and reduce some of the effects of cancer treatment.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition categorized by generalized fatigue that persists for 6 months or longer, and is more intense than would be expected based on the effort a person regularly exerts. Because fatigue, pain, and weakness are all associated with CFS, physical therapist treatment will likely focus on improving short-term endurance and strength.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) causes breathing difficulty and leads to other systemic problems. Physical therapists can work with your pulmonary rehabilitation team or with you individually to help improve your exercise capacity, overall strength, and health and quality of life.
Chronic Pain Syndromes
Chronic pain is a condition that occurs when the brain concludes there is a threat to a person’s well-being based on the many signals it receives from the body. This condition can and often does occur independently of any actual body tissue damage (due to injury or illness), and beyond normal tissue healing time. Physical therapists work together with chronic pain patients to lessen their pain, and restore their activity to the highest possible levels
Collarbone Fracture (Clavicle Fracture)
Clavicle fracture is a common shoulder injury, making up 4% of all fracture types and 35% of all shoulder injuries.
Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome is a serious medical condition that occurs when there is increased pressure in the muscular compartment of the limbs. Physical therapy can be effective to help identify the factors that may influence the development of compartment syndrome.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
CRPS generally arises from a minor injury, such as a scrape, sprain, or strain and can result in the syndrome that is defined as being complex, regional (symptoms are generally in 1 region of the body), and painful. A multi-disciplinary approach to treatment is currently recommended, consisting of care from physicians, psychologists, and physical therapists.
Concussion
Concussion is a traumatic brain injury that can cause lasting effects on brain tissue and change the chemical balance of the brain.
Container Baby Syndrome
A “container baby” is a newborn baby or young infant who is placed in a container, such as a car seat or stroller, for an excessive amount of time in a given day. A physical therapist can design an individualized treatment plan to address the problems of a container baby, and help build strength, restore movement, and address skeletal deformities.
Core Muscle Injury (Sports Hernia)
Core muscle injury, often misleadingly called a “sports hernia,” is a condition that mainly affects athletes who play soccer, hockey, football, and rugby, and who run track. It is more common in males than females.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common nerve compression occurring in the arm. (Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common.)
Cuboid Syndrome
Cuboid syndrome is a condition caused by a problem with the cuboid bone, producing pain on the outer side, and possibly underside, of the foot.
De Quervain’s Tendinitis
De Quervain’s (dih-kwer-VAINS) tendinitis is a condition that causes pain and tenderness at the thumb side of the wrist, at the base of the thumb and forearm. Your physical therapist will review and evaluate how you use your hand and wrist for functional activity. Your physical therapist will try to help you identify what activities or positions that you use that may contribute to the problem
Degenerative Disk Disease
Degenerative disk disease (DDD) can be one cause of back and neck pain. However, DDD is part of the natural aging process, like getting gray hair, and in many cases is not painful at all.
Developmental Coordination Disorder
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a movement (motor) skill (or neuro-developmental) disorder unrelated to physical disorders such as cerebral palsy, or to intelligence disorders. Physical therapists work with children with DCD to improve muscle strength, coordination, and balance, and help them develop skills to improve their daily activities and quality of life.
Developmental Delay
Developmental delay describes the behavior of young children whose development in key mental and physical areas is slower than other children of the same age. The delay can be in any of a number of areas of development, such as movement (motor control), speaking, thinking, playing, or self-care skills.
Diabetes
In diabetes, the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Physical therapists help people with diabetes improve or avoid related problems, and can teach sedentary people how to add physical activity to their daily lives in safe, effective, and enjoyable ways.
Diastasis Rectus Abdominis
Diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) is a condition in which the 2 sides of the abdominal muscle separate, as the tissue connecting them stretches.
Discoid Meniscus
A discoid meniscus is an abnormally shaped meniscus (cartilage that cushions the bones of the knee) present in 1% to 3% of people born in the United States. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a plan to help achieve your specific goals.
Dizziness
Dizziness is a common problem, especially among older adults. It can cause a spinning sensation, a general feeling of unsteadiness, or can be described as “lightheadedness.”
Down Syndrome
Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic disorder in which babies are born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. Physical therapists work with individuals with Down syndrome from infancy through adulthood to help them function at their maximum potential and lead healthy, productive lives.
Elbow Bursitis
Elbow (olecranon) bursitis, commonly known as “baker’s elbow,” “student’s elbow,” or “Popeye elbow,” involves swelling at the tip of the elbow, on the back of the arm.
Elbow Fracture
An elbow fracture is a bone break that occurs in the middle of the arm, in the area of the elbow joint.
Falls
Falls and a fear of falling can diminish your ability to lead a full and independent life. Although 1 in every 4 older adults falls each year, falling is not a part of normal aging. Based on the evaluation results, your physical therapist will design a plan that is tailored to your needs. Your treatment plan may include balance training.
Female Athlete Triad
Female athlete triad (triad) is a syndrome that can manifest across a broad spectrum, but involves the interrelationship between 3 measurable factors: (1) how much energy a woman has available to use for activity (energy availability), (2) the quality and strength of her bones (bone mineral density), and (3) her menstrual cycle.