PM & R : the journal of injury, function, and rehabilitation
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Musculoskeletal ultrasound involves the use of high-frequency sound waves to image soft tissues and bony structures in the body for the purposes of diagnosing pathology or guiding real-time interventional procedures. Recently, an increasing number of physicians have integrated musculoskeletal ultrasound into their practices to facilitate patient care. Technological advancements, improved portability, and reduced costs continue to drive the proliferation of ultrasound in clinical medicine. ⋯ The primary purpose of this article is to review diagnostic ultrasound technology and its potential clinical applications in the evaluation and treatment of patients with neurological and musculoskeletal disorders. After reviewing this article, physicians should be able to (1) list the advantages and disadvantages of ultrasound compared to other available imaging modalities; (2) describe how ultrasound machines produce images using sound waves; (3) discuss the steps necessary to acquire and optimize an ultrasound image; (4) understand the difference ultrasound appearances of tendons, nerves, muscles, ligaments, blood vessels, and bones; and (5) identify multiple applications for diagnostic and interventional musculoskeletal ultrasound. Part 2 of this 2-part article will focus on the clinical applications of musculoskeletal ultrasound in clinical practice, including the ultrasonographic appearance of normal and abnormal tissues as well as specific diagnostic and interventional applications in major body regions.
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The classification of patients with low back pain (LBP) may be important for improving clinical outcomes and research efficiency. The purpose of this study was to examine the inter-tester reliability of 2 trained physical therapists to classify patients with LBP by using the standardized Movement System Impairment (MSI) classification system. The 5 proposed MSI classifications are based on the most consistent patterns of movement and alignment observed throughout the examination that correlate with the patient's symptom behavior. ⋯ Inter-tester reliability of classification of patients with LBP when therapists use a standardized clinical examination based on the MSI classification system is substantial.
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This study explores the link between neurologic deficit as measured by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and its relationship to length of stay (LOS) and discharge destination. ⋯ Stroke remains one of the most common reasons for admission to acute care hospitals. The authors know of no studies that have examined the rehabilitation aspect of care incorporating the NIHSS in this manner. This study draws a connection between neurologic impairment by using the NIHSS and LOS and discharge destination in an acute inpatient rehabilitation stroke unit. In the future, multidisciplinary rehabilitation teams may consider using this measure to predict LOS and disposition at discharge from inpatient rehabilitation.