Are Your Movement Patterns Causing You Pain?
Imagine a complex machine of interlocking pieces designed to move together. What happens when one part of that machine starts working in a way it’s not meant to? What happens if a particular piece becomes destabilized? It’ll have a cascade effect, causing issues throughout the system.
Movement System Impairment (MSI) is an approach to physical therapy that looks at our bodies as biological moving machines. Your musculoskeletal system is the primary driver of movement, and our other body systems (such as the endocrine and cardiovascular systems) are affected by that movement. But when something in the system has a faulty alignment, it can cause problems throughout the body.
At PT Unlimited, we utilize the concept of MSI to help diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain. This approach allows us to see the body as a connected whole rather than individual affected body parts–so we can help you find the relief you deserve.
Understanding Movement System Impairment Syndromes
Depending on the affected area, we classify dysfunctions in your body’s alignment and movement patterns into different MSI syndromes. We’ll identify these syndromes through comprehensive movement screens that allow our experts to assess your body’s ability to coordinate efficiently and effectively while simultaneously looking out for places where you may be moving unnaturally.
The idea is to classify musculoskeletal disorders based on the underlying movement impairments that cause or contribute to the disorder, rather than focusing solely on the region of pain. This approach helps in determining the root cause of the pain, which aids in more effective intervention strategies.
There are several different MSI syndromes. Here are three common examples:
Lumbar Syndromes:
- Flexion Movement System Impairment (MSI): Associated with excessive or early lumbar flexion and may be seen in individuals with chronic low back pain who bend from the waist rather than the hips.
- Extension MSI: Linked with excessive or early lumbar extension. This is commonly seen in individuals with an exaggerated lumbar lordosis.
Shoulder Syndromes:
- Humeral Anterior Glide: Associated with excessive anterior motion of the humerus during arm elevation, leading to potential shoulder impingement.
- Scapular Downward Rotation: The scapula doesn’t rotate upward sufficiently during arm elevation, potentially leading to impingement symptoms.
Hip Syndromes:
- Femoral Anterior Glide: The femur moves excessively forward in the acetabulum, which might be linked to hip pain, especially during hip flexion.
- Adduction MSI: This relates to the excessive adduction or inward movement of the thigh, which can be associated with conditions like medial knee pain or patellofemoral pain syndrome.
However, remember that MSI syndrome can occur throughout the body. Our therapists can tell you exactly where your impairment stems from.
Steps in Addressing and Treating MSI Syndromes
The MSI approach to managing pain follows a step-by-step process. Our therapists will systematically guide you through this process so you can live a healthy, pain-free life:
- Step 1: Determine your particular syndrome through a comprehensive evaluation
- Step 2: Identify the factors contributing to the syndrome (i.e., muscle weakness, restrictions in mobility)
- Step 3: Develop a customized exercise program that will correct those factors
- Step 4: Identity the misalignments and improper movements you’ll need to correct in your day-to-day life
- Step 5: Give you the tools to make those corrections and resolve your musculoskeletal pain!
You will also learn how to alleviate and prevent mechanical musculoskeletal pain through treatment focused on restoring your optimal alignment and appropriate movement patterns. With this easy, five-step process, you can say goodbye to musculoskeletal pain for good!
Ready to get started? Schedule an appointment with PT Unlimited today!
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!
