Physical therapy
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Self-report measures for assessing specific fear of activities have not been reported in the peer-reviewed literature, but are necessary to adequately test treatment hypotheses related to fear-avoidance models. ⋯ The FDAQ is a potentially viable measure for fear of specific activities in physical therapy settings. These analyses suggest the FDAQ may be appropriate for determining graded exposure treatment plans and monitoring changes in fear levels, but is not appropriate as a screening tool.
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Adhesive capsulitis often is difficult to diagnose in its early stage and to differentiate from other commonly seen shoulder disorders with the potential to cause pain and limited range of movement. ⋯ This is the first study to use the Delphi technique to establish clinical identifiers indicative of the early stage of primary (idiopathic) adhesive capsulitis. Although limited in differential diagnostic ability, these identifiers may assist the clinician in recognizing early-stage adhesive capsulitis and may inform management, as well as facilitate future research.
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Variation in referral rates for physical therapy exists at both the individual physician and practice levels. ⋯ The results suggest that orthopedic trauma surgeons refer patients for physical therapy based mostly on expectations for physical and motor outcomes, but may not be considering pain relief, return to work, and psychosocial aspects of recovery. Furthermore, low referral rates may be attributed to a preference for surgeon-directed home-based rehabilitation. Future research should consider the efficacy of physical therapy for pain, psychosocial and occupational outcomes, and exploring the differences between supervised physical therapy and physician-directed home exercise programs.