Introduction to Muscle Stiffness The physical state of having tight, rigid, or difficult-to-move muscles is known as muscle stiffness. While it’s a common experience that most people encounter at some point in their lives, muscle stiffness can be frustrating and limiting. It can range from a mild feeling of tightness after exercise to severe, painful…
Diabetes is an extremely prevalent yet dangerous illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that over 34 million Americans suffer from diabetes, with type 2 diabetes accounting for 90–95% of cases. Prediabetes, a condition that precedes type 2 diabetes, affects about 88 million people. Type 2 diabetes has no known cure. However,…
What is Metabolic Encephalopathy? Metabolic Encephalopathy is a diffuse brain dysfunction caused by systemic metabolic or toxic disturbances. It often results from conditions such as liver failure, kidney failure, hypoxia, sepsis, or severe electrolyte imbalances. Symptoms can range from confusion and lethargy to seizures and coma, depending on the severity of the underlying condition. The…
Objectives: The Sulcus Sign is an examination test used to check shoulder instability, mainly inferior instability. It involves the clinician applying a downward force on the humerus while stabilizing the scapula. A positive Sulcus Sign is indicated by the presence of a visible sulcus or groove beneath the acromion, suggesting that the humeral head has…
What is a Crank’s Test? Crank’s Test is an orthopedic examination primarily used to assess the integrity of the glenoid labrum in the shoulder, specifically looking for labral tears. It is especially helpful in identifying superior labral anterior to posterior (SLAP) lesions. Objective: Clinically diagnosing tears of the shoulder’s superior labrum from the anterior to…
The Serratus Anterior Test is a clinical examination used to assess the strength and functionality of the serratus anterior muscle, which plays a crucial role in stabilizing the scapula against the thoracic wall. This muscle is essential for movements involving the shoulder and upper limb, especially in overhead and pushing activities. Dysfunction or weakness of…
What is a Sensory Ataxia? Sensory ataxia is represented by uncoordinated movement because of a muscle control issue that provokes an inability to coordinate movements and balance due to reduced sensory input. Sensory ataxia, as opposed to motor ataxia, is caused by abnormalities with the sensory pathways that give the brain knowledge of the body’s…
What is a Shoulder-hand Syndrome (SHS)? Shoulder-Hand Syndrome, also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), is a painful condition that typically affects the upper extremities. It often starts in the shoulder and progresses to the hand, causing stiffness, swelling, and impaired function. Although the precise etiology of the disease…
What is a Sitting Root Test? The Sitting Root Test is a diagnostic tool used in physiotherapy to assess nerve tension, particularly involving the sciatic nerve. It helps identify nerve root irritation or compression by evaluating the flexibility and response of the lower limb nerves in a seated position. This test is commonly used to…
Objective: Neer’s test is a diagnostic process that helps identify whether your limited range of motion and shoulder pain are signs of tissue impingement. Neer impingement test can be performed as part of a comprehensive shoulder assessment by your physician or physical therapist. By applying pressure and flexion to the shoulder, the Neer impingement test mimics…
