Resident's case problem in physical therapy

What is it about?

Patients presenting with multiple symptomatic areas pose a diagnostic challenge for the physical therapist. Though musculoskeletal and nonmusculoskeletal symptoms typically present separately, they can occur simultaneously and mimic each other. Consequently, the ability to differentiate between musculoskeletal and nonmusculoskeletal symptoms is an important skill for physical therapists. The purpose of this resident's case problem was to describe the clinical-reasoning process leading to medical and physical therapy management of a patient presenting with upper and lower back pain, bilateral radiating arm and leg pain, and abdominal pain.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

This resident's case problem provides an opportunity to discuss the differential diagnosis, clinical reasoning, and outcome of a patient who presented with both systemic and neuromusculoskeletal pathology.

Perspectives