16th April 2012
Evening lecture by Koen Schoolmeesters for regional group of physiotherapists in Herentals, Belgium.
Low back pain patients are often referred to the physiotherapist by the general practitioner with the medical diagnosis of “discopathy (+/- radiculopathy) “. This diagnosis can be based on clinical examination and is sometimes confirmed by medical imaging (MRI, CT scan, …). But even in these cases it’s difficult for physiotherapists to be sure about the anatomical structure that’s “really” responsible for the patient’s symptoms and disability. Moreover is it also possible that not only the disc but also another anatomical structure (e.g. zygaphofyseal joint, osteo-ligamentar structure, ….) is involved in the pathomechanism.
How can we set up a management plan if we are not sure about the anatomical structure that’s responsible for the patient’s signs and symptoms ?
The answer is ………to make a complementary “motor control diagnosis” in terms of site and direction of UnControlled Movement (UCM).
But …how do we make a motor control diagnosis in terms of UCM ? Is there any scientific evidence for the use of such a complementary diagnosis ?
These questions were answered in the evening lecture, using a case study as clinical example.