Introduction to the Physiotherapy Glossary
Understanding the terminology used in physiotherapy can help patients communicate more effectively with their healthcare providers, make informed decisions about their care, and better understand their conditions and treatments. This comprehensive glossary provides clear, detailed explanations of the terms, techniques, and concepts commonly encountered in physiotherapy practice.
The language of physiotherapy draws from anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, pathology, and exercise science. While some terms are unique to healthcare, others are familiar words used in specific technical contexts. This glossary covers the full spectrum of terminology from basic anatomical terms to advanced treatment techniques.
Whether you are a patient seeking to understand your physiotherapy report, a student beginning your study of physiotherapy, or a healthcare professional looking to clarify terminology, this glossary provides the information you need. Terms are organized alphabetically with detailed definitions and, where helpful, explanations of clinical relevance.
At Healer’s Clinic Dubai, we believe that informed patients are better equipped to participate actively in their care. Understanding the language of physiotherapy empowers you to engage meaningfully with your treatment team and take control of your health journey.
Section A
Acceleration
The rate of change in velocity of a body part or object. In biomechanics, acceleration is measured in meters per second squared (m/s²). Training programs for athletes often focus on improving acceleration for faster movement.
Acclimatization
The process by which the body adapts to environmental changes such as heat, altitude, or humidity. Acclimatization to heat involves increased plasma volume, earlier sweating, and other physiological changes that improve heat tolerance.
Active Range of Motion (AROM)
The range of motion that a joint can move through actively, using the patient’s own muscle contraction. This is distinguished from passive range of motion where the therapist moves the joint. AROM is assessed to evaluate muscle strength and joint mobility.
Activities of Daily Living (ADL)
Basic self-care activities that people normally do on a daily basis, including bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, continence, and feeding. Assessment of ADL performance is important for determining functional status and treatment goals.
Acute
Refers to a condition or symptom that has a sudden onset and is typically of short duration. Acute pain usually lasts less than 4-6 weeks. The term is used to distinguish from chronic conditions.
Adaptation
The process by which the body changes in response to imposed demands. Muscles adapt to exercise by becoming stronger, joints adapt to loading by becoming more resilient, and the nervous system adapts to training by improving motor control.
Adhesion
Abnormal connections between tissues that restrict normal movement. Adhesions may form in muscles, tendons, ligaments, or internal organs following injury, surgery, or inflammation. Soft tissue mobilization and stretching can help break down adhesions.
Aerobic Exercise
Exercise that relies on oxygen for energy production and can be sustained for extended periods. Examples include walking, running, cycling, and swimming. Aerobic exercise improves cardiovascular fitness, endurance, and metabolic health.
Aggravating Factors
Activities, positions, or circumstances that make symptoms worse. Identifying aggravating factors is important for diagnosis and management. Treatment often involves modifying or avoiding aggravating activities while working to improve tolerance.
Agonist
A muscle that contracts to produce a desired movement. For example, the quadriceps are agonists for knee extension. Antagonist muscles oppose the action of agonists.
Algometer
A device used to measure pain sensitivity by applying controlled pressure to specific body sites. Pressure algometry provides quantitative assessment of tender points and pain thresholds.
Ambulation
The act of walking or moving on foot. Ambulation training is often a focus of rehabilitation following surgery, injury, or illness that has affected mobility.
Analgesia
The absence of pain in response to stimulation that would normally be painful. Analgesia may be achieved through medications, nerve blocks, or other pain management techniques.
Anatomical Position
The standard reference position for the body: standing upright, facing forward, arms at the sides with palms facing forward, feet together with toes forward. All anatomical descriptions assume this position.
Anterior
Refers to the front of the body or a body part. The patella (kneecap) is located on the anterior surface of the knee.
Antagonist
A muscle that relaxes to allow movement produced by an agonist muscle. For example, the hamstrings are antagonists to the quadriceps during knee extension. Antagonists can also be drugs or substances that oppose the action of another.
AROM
See Active Range of Motion.
Arthrokinematics
The movement of joint surfaces relative to each other. Understanding arthrokinematics is essential for manual therapy techniques that restore normal joint movement.
Asymmetry
A lack of symmetry or balance between two sides of the body. Muscle weakness, joint restrictions, or movement faults may present as asymmetries. Assessment often includes comparison between affected and unaffected sides.
Atrophy
A decrease in the size of a tissue or organ, particularly muscle, due to disuse, denervation, or disease. Muscle atrophy occurs with disuse and is addressed through progressive resistance training.
Axial Loading
Force applied along the long axis of a structure, such as the spine. Axial loading occurs during standing and lifting and is important to consider in spinal rehabilitation.
Section B
Balance
The ability to maintain the body’s position over its base of support, both statically and during movement. Balance depends on intact sensory systems, musculoskeletal function, and central integration. Balance training is important for fall prevention and athletic performance.
Bariatric
Relating to the treatment of obesity. Bariatric rehabilitation addresses the unique needs of patients with obesity, including modified exercise protocols and accommodation of body habitus.
Base of Support
The area beneath a person or object that defines where weight is transferred. In standing, the base of support is the area between and around the feet. A wider base provides greater stability.
Biomechanics
The study of the forces acting on and produced by the body during movement. Biomechanical analysis helps identify movement faults, optimize performance, and prevent injury.
Bony Landmark
A prominent bone feature that can be palpated and used as a reference point for assessment or treatment. Examples include the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and the tibial tuberosity.
Brachial Plexus
A network of nerves that supplies the upper limb, formed by the ventral rami of cervical spinal nerves C5-T1. Injuries to the brachial plexus can cause significant upper extremity dysfunction.
Bursa
A fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between moving structures. Bursae are located at points of pressure or friction, such as over bony prominences or between muscles and tendons. Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa.
Bursitis
Inflammation of a bursa, often causing pain and restricted movement. Common sites include the subacromial bursa (shoulder), prepatellar bursa (knee), and olecranon bursa (elbow).
Section C
Capsular Pattern
A characteristic pattern of restriction associated with inflammation or pathology of a joint capsule. For example, capsular patterns include external rotation limitation in the shoulder and medial rotation and abduction limitation in the hip.
Carpal Tunnel
A passage in the wrist formed by the carpal bones and the transverse carpal ligament. The median nerve passes through the carpal tunnel, and compression causes carpal tunnel syndrome.
Cartilage
A connective tissue that covers the ends of bones at joints, providing a smooth, low-friction surface for movement. Cartilage has limited capacity for repair, which is why cartilage damage is a significant concern in joint health.
Central Nervous System (CNS)
The brain and spinal cord. The CNS processes sensory information, controls movement, and is responsible for higher functions. Neurological physiotherapy addresses conditions affecting the CNS.
Cervical Spine
The neck region of the spine, consisting of seven cervical vertebrae (C1-C7). The cervical spine has great mobility but is vulnerable to injury and degenerative changes.
Closed Chain Exercise
Exercise where the distal segment (hand or foot) is fixed and cannot move freely. Examples include squats, leg press, and push-ups. Closed chain exercises generally produce less shear force at joints and involve multiple muscle groups.
CNS
See Central Nervous System.
Cobalt Spine
The thoracic and lumbar regions of the spine, excluding the cervical spine. The term is sometimes used when discussing the mid and lower back together.
Compensation
A movement pattern or strategy that develops to avoid pain or accommodate a physical limitation. While compensation may allow continued activity, it can lead to problems if maintained long-term.
Concentric Contraction
Muscle contraction that results in muscle shortening as the muscle produces force. Lifting a weight through the upward phase of a curl is an example of concentric contraction.
Contracture
A permanent shortening of soft tissues resulting in loss of range of motion. Contractures may result from prolonged immobilization, muscle imbalance, or neurological conditions.
Contraindication
A condition or factor that makes a particular treatment inadvisable. Absolute contraindications are conditions that make the treatment unsafe under any circumstances. Relative contraindications require caution and consideration of risks versus benefits.
Contralateral
Refers to the opposite side of the body. Pain or dysfunction on the contralateral side means the opposite side from a reference point.
Coping Strategy
A behavior or thought process used to manage pain, stress, or difficult situations. Effective coping strategies help patients manage their conditions and maintain quality of life.
Core Stability
The ability of the trunk muscles to stabilize the spine during movement. Core stability is important for transferring forces between upper and lower body and protecting the spine from injury.
Crepitus
A grating, crackling, or popping sensation or sound detected during joint movement. Crepitus may be caused by roughened joint surfaces, tendon movement over bone, or gas bubbles in tissues.
Cryotherapy
The use of cold for therapeutic purposes. Cryotherapy includes ice packs, ice massage, cold baths, and specialized cooling devices. Cold reduces blood flow, inflammation, and nerve conduction velocity, producing analgesic effects.
Cutaneous
Relating to the skin. Cutaneous sensation refers to sensation from the skin, including touch, temperature, and pain.
Section D
Degeneration
The progressive deterioration of a tissue or organ over time. Degenerative changes in the spine (disc degeneration, facet joint arthritis) are common with aging and may contribute to pain.
Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
Muscle soreness that develops 24-48 hours after unaccustomed or intense exercise. DOMS is thought to result from microscopic muscle damage and is common when starting a new exercise program or increasing intensity.
Dermatome
An area of skin supplied by a single spinal nerve root. Dermatome maps help identify the level of nerve root involvement in radicular pain conditions.
Discectomy
Surgical removal of all or part of an intervertebral disc. This procedure is performed for disc herniation with nerve compression that has not responded to conservative treatment.
Distal
Refers to a point farther from the center of the body or point of reference. The hand is distal to the elbow.
Dorsal
Refers to the back or posterior surface of the body. In the hand, the dorsal surface is the back of the hand.
Dorsiflexion
Movement of the ankle that brings the foot upward toward the shin. Limited dorsiflexion can affect gait and squatting ability.
Dynamometry
The measurement of muscle strength using a device called a dynamometer. Handheld dynamometers provide objective measures of force production.
Section E
Eccentric Contraction
Muscle contraction that occurs while the muscle is lengthening under tension. Lowering a weight during the downward phase of a curl is an example of eccentric contraction. Eccentric training is important for tendon rehabilitation.
Edema
Swelling caused by excess fluid in the body’s tissues. Edema may result from injury, inflammation, venous insufficiency, or other causes.
Effleurage
A massage technique consisting of light, stroking movements. Effleurage is often used at the beginning and end of massage sessions to promote relaxation and circulation.
Electrical Stimulation
The use of electrical currents for therapeutic purposes. Types include TENS (for pain), NMES (for muscle re-education and strengthening), and IFC (interferential current).
Endurance
The ability of a muscle or system to sustain activity over time. Muscular endurance is the ability to perform repeated contractions, while cardiovascular endurance is the ability to sustain whole-body aerobic activity.
End-Stage Range
The point at which a joint reaches its maximum available movement. End-stage range stretching aims to improve the final degrees of joint motion.
Ergonomics
The study of the interaction between people and their environment, particularly the workplace. Ergonomic assessment identifies factors that contribute to musculoskeletal problems and recommends modifications.
Eversion
Movement of the foot that turns the sole outward, away from the midline of the body. Eversion occurs at the subtalar and transverse tarsal joints.
Extension
A movement that increases the angle between two body segments. For example, knee extension straightens the knee from a bent position.
Section F
Fascia
A continuous web of connective tissue that surrounds and interpenetrates muscles, bones, and organs. Fascia provides structural support and allows force transmission between body parts.
Fascial Release
A manual therapy technique that applies sustained pressure or stretch to the fascial system to release restrictions and improve tissue mobility.
Fibrillation
Rapid, uncontrolled muscle contraction visible under the skin. Fibrillation may occur with certain neurological conditions or be seen on electromyography.
Flaccidity
A decrease in muscle tone with weakness, often resulting from lower motor neuron injury. Flaccid muscles appear soft and may atrophy rapidly.
Flexion
A movement that decreases the angle between two body segments. For example, knee flexion bends the knee.
Flexibility
The ability of soft tissues to lengthen through a range of motion. Flexibility depends on muscle length, joint structure, and connective tissue properties.
Foot Pronation
A complex movement involving dorsiflexion, eversion, and abduction of the foot. Excessive pronation may contribute to lower extremity problems.
Force Couple
Two or more muscles acting on different parts of a bone to produce rotation in the same direction. Force couples are important for normal joint movement and stability.
Friction Massage
A deep massage technique applied across the grain of a muscle or tendon. Friction massage is used to break down adhesions and promote tissue healing.
Functional Limitation
Restriction in the ability to perform a task or activity. Functional limitations result from impairments and affect participation in life situations.
Section G
Gait
The manner or style of walking. Gait analysis examines the components of walking, including stance phase, swing phase, and the coordination of limb movements.
Gait Cycle
One complete cycle of walking, from initial contact of one foot to the next initial contact of the same foot. The gait cycle consists of stance phase (approximately 60%) and swing phase (approximately 40%).
Glenohumeral Joint
The shoulder joint, a ball-and-socket joint formed by the head of the humerus and the glenoid fossa of the scapula. This joint has the greatest range of motion in the body.
Goniometry
The measurement of joint angles using a goniometer. Goniometry provides objective assessment of range of motion.
Gower’s Sign
A maneuver used to assess proximal muscle weakness, particularly of the hip and shoulder girdles. A positive Gower’s sign, where the patient must use hands to “walk” up the legs to stand from the floor, indicates significant proximal weakness.
Guarding
Involuntary muscle contraction that occurs in response to pain or fear of pain. Guarding is a protective response that can limit movement and contribute to stiffness.
Section H
Hamstrings
The group of muscles on the posterior thigh that flex the knee and extend the hip. The hamstrings consist of the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus.
Hawkins-Kennedy Test
A clinical test for shoulder impingement. The test is positive if pain is reproduced with the shoulder in forward flexion, internal rotation, and horizontal adduction.
Heat Therapy
The application of heat for therapeutic purposes. Heat increases tissue temperature, blood flow, and tissue extensibility while reducing pain and muscle spasm.
Hemiparesis
Weakness on one side of the body, often resulting from stroke or brain injury. Hemiparesis may affect the face, arm, and/or leg.
Herniation
Abnormal protrusion of tissue through a normal opening. Disc herniation occurs when the nucleus pulposus protrudes through the annulus fibrosus.
Homeostasis
The state of balance and stability in the body’s internal environment. Homeostatic mechanisms maintain temperature, pH, and other parameters within narrow limits.
Hydrotherapy
The use of water for therapeutic purposes. Hydrotherapy may involve exercise in pools, aquatic therapy, or specific water-based treatments.
Hyperalgesia
Increased sensitivity to pain or an enhanced response to a painful stimulus. Hyperalgesia may occur with central sensitization.
Hypertonia
Increased muscle tone above normal levels. Hypertonia may result from upper motor neuron lesions and is characterized by increased resistance to passive stretch.
Hypomobility
Reduced joint mobility or range of motion. Hypomobility may result from joint stiffness, muscle tightness, or pain inhibition.
Hypertrophy
An increase in the size of a tissue or organ. Muscle hypertrophy results from resistance training and involves an increase in muscle fiber size.
Hysteresis
The tendency of a tissue to return slowly to its original shape after being deformed. Hysteresis in soft tissues means that repeated loading may be needed to achieve maximum stretch.
Section I
Iliotibial Band (ITB)
A thick band of fascia that runs from the tensor fasciae latae and gluteus maximus to the lateral tibia. ITB syndrome is a common overuse injury in runners.
Immobilization
The restriction of movement, typically through casting, bracing, or splinting. Immobilization protects healing tissues but may cause stiffness and weakness if prolonged.
Impairment
A loss or abnormality of a body structure or physiological function. Impairments include weakness, limited range of motion, and sensory loss.
Incidence
The rate at which new cases of a condition occur in a population. Incidence differs from prevalence, which is the total number of existing cases.
Incontinence
Inability to control bladder or bowel function. Pelvic floor physiotherapy addresses urinary and fecal incontinence through specific exercise and behavioral interventions.
Inferior
Refers to a position below or toward the feet relative to a reference point. The knee is inferior to the hip.
Inflammation
The body’s protective response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain. Acute inflammation is part of the healing process, but chronic inflammation can contribute to disease.
Inhibition
The reduction or prevention of a function, particularly muscle activity. Muscle inhibition may occur due to pain, swelling, or neurological factors.
Innervation
The supply of nerves to a body part. The pattern of innervation helps localize lesions and understand referred pain patterns.
Intermittent Claudication
Pain, cramping, or fatigue in the legs during walking that resolves with rest. Intermittent claudication is a symptom of peripheral arterial disease.
Interval Training
Exercise organized into periods of work and recovery. Interval training can improve both aerobic and anaerobic fitness and is used in athletic conditioning and rehabilitation.
Isokinetic Exercise
Exercise performed at a constant speed with variable resistance. Isokinetic machines maintain set velocity regardless of the force applied, allowing maximal effort throughout the range.
Isometric Contraction
Muscle contraction without change in muscle length. Isometric exercises produce force without joint movement and are useful when joint motion is contraindicated.
Isotonic Exercise
Exercise performed with constant load and changing muscle length. Isotonic exercises include both concentric (shortening) and eccentric (lengthening) contractions.
Section J
Joint
The connection between two or more bones. Joints allow movement and vary in structure from highly mobile synovial joints to immovable fibrous joints.
Joint Capsule
The fibrous structure that encloses a synovial joint. The joint capsule consists of an outer fibrous layer and an inner synovial membrane that produces synovial fluid.
Joint Play
The small movements that occur between joint surfaces, including rolling, sliding, and spinning. These accessory movements are necessary for normal joint function but cannot be performed voluntarily.
Joint Replacement
Surgical replacement of a damaged joint with an artificial prosthesis. Common joint replacements include hip and knee replacements.
Jumper’s Knee
Patellar tendinopathy, an overuse injury of the patellar tendon common in jumping sports. Symptoms include anterior knee pain localized to the inferior pole of the patella.
Section K
Kinesthesia
The sense of joint position and movement. Kinesthetic awareness allows us to know where our limbs are without looking at them.
Kinesiophobia
Fear of movement, commonly occurring after injury. Kinesiophobia can lead to activity avoidance and disability and is a target of cognitive-behavioral interventions in pain management.
Kinetic Chain
A series of interconnected joints and segments that work together during movement. The body functions as a closed kinetic chain during weight-bearing activities and as an open kinetic chain during non-weight-bearing movements.
Knee Valgus
Inward collapse of the knee during weight-bearing activities. Knee valgus may result from weak hip muscles, poor footwear, or biomechanical factors and is associated with knee injury risk.
Kyphosis
Excessive curvature of the thoracic spine, resulting in a rounded upper back. Kyphosis may be postural or result from structural changes such as vertebral compression fractures.
Section L
Lachman Test
A clinical test for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) integrity. Increased anterior translation of the tibia with a soft endpoint indicates ACL injury.
Lateral
Refers to a position away from the midline of the body. The little finger is lateral to the ring finger.
Ligament
A band of fibrous tissue connecting bones. Ligaments provide joint stability and may be injured when subjected to excessive force.
Locked
A term used to describe a joint that cannot be moved through its full range due to mechanical blockage or pain.
Lordosis
Excessive curvature of the lumbar spine, resulting in an inward curve of the lower back. Lumbar lordosis may be increased in conditions such as spondylolisthesis or due to pregnancy.
Lumbar Spine
The lower back region of the spine, consisting of five lumbar vertebrae (L1-L5). The lumbar spine bears significant load and is a common site of pain and injury.
Section M
Manipulation
A manual therapy technique involving a high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust applied to a joint. Manipulation can produce an audible pop and may improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
Manual Muscle Testing (MMT)
A method of assessing muscle strength using a standardized protocol. Muscles are graded on a scale from 0 to 5 based on the ability to move through range against gravity and resistance.
McKenzie Method
A system of assessment and treatment for spinal pain that emphasizes repeated movements and postural correction. The method classifies patients based on their response to movement.
Mechanical Diagnosis and Treatment (MDT)
See McKenzie Method.
Medial
Refers to a position toward the midline of the body. The big toe is medial to the second toe.
Meniscus
A crescent-shaped cartilage structure in the knee. The medial and lateral menisci absorb shock and distribute load in the knee joint.
Metatarsalgia
Pain in the ball of the foot, typically under the metatarsal heads. Metatarsalgia may result from overuse, footwear, or foot biomechanics.
Mobility
The ability to move freely and easily. Mobility depends on joint structure, soft tissue length, and neuromuscular function.
Modalities
Physical agents used for therapeutic purposes, including heat, cold, electricity, sound, and light. Modalities may be used to reduce pain, improve circulation, or promote tissue healing.
Motor Control
The ability to produce coordinated movement through the integrated function of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. Motor control training addresses impaired movement patterns.
Motor Learning
The process by which movement becomes more efficient and skilled through practice. Motor learning principles are applied in rehabilitation to develop new movement patterns.
Mulligan Concept
A manual therapy approach developed by Brian Mulligan that combines sustained joint mobilization with active patient movement. The technique aims to produce immediate improvements in pain-free range of motion.
Muscle Energy Techniques (MET)
A category of manual therapy techniques in which the patient actively contracts muscles against therapist resistance. MET is used to improve joint mobility and muscle length.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome
A chronic pain condition characterized by trigger points in muscles and referred pain. Myofascial pain is treated with trigger point therapy, stretching, and exercise.
Myofascial Trigger Point
A hyperirritable spot in skeletal muscle that is associated with a palpable nodule in a taut band. Pressure on a trigger point elicits local tenderness and referred pain.
Section N
Neer Test
A clinical test for shoulder impingement. The test is positive if pain is reproduced with passive forward flexion of the internally rotated shoulder.
Nerve Glide
A technique that involves moving a nerve through its range of motion to reduce adhesions and improve neural mobility. Nerve glides are used for conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome and sciatica.
Neural Mobilization
Therapeutic techniques that address the mobility and health of the nervous system. Neural mobilization techniques involve controlled movement of the nervous system through its anatomical range.
Neuromuscular
Relating to the interface between nerves and muscles. Neuromuscular re-education addresses the coordination of nerve and muscle function.
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)
Electrical stimulation used to produce muscle contraction. NMES is used for muscle re-education, preventing atrophy, and strengthening.
Neuropathy
Disease or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves. Symptoms may include pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the distribution of the affected nerve.
Nociceptor
A sensory receptor that responds to potentially damaging stimuli. Nociceptors detect mechanical, thermal, and chemical stimuli and initiate pain signals.
Non-Weight Bearing (NWB)
A classification indicating that no weight can be placed on the affected limb. NWB status is prescribed after certain injuries and surgeries to protect healing tissues.
Section O
Open Chain Exercise
Exercise where the distal segment (hand or foot) is free to move. Examples include leg extension and bicep curl. Open chain exercises isolate specific muscles but may produce higher shear forces at joints.
Orthosis
An external device applied to a body part to support, align, or improve function. Orthoses include braces, splints, and shoe inserts.
Osteoarthritis
A degenerative joint disease characterized by breakdown of articular cartilage, subchondral bone changes, and often osteophyte formation. Osteoarthritis causes pain and stiffness in affected joints.
Osteokinematic Motion
The angular movement of bones around a joint axis. Osteokinematic motions include flexion, extension, abduction, and rotation.
Overuse Injury
Injury resulting from repetitive microtrauma that overwhelms the body’s capacity for repair. Overuse injuries are common in sports and occupational activities.
Section P
PANN
See Pressure-Generated Needling.
Paraesthesia
Abnormal sensation such as tingling, prickling, or numbness. Paresthesia may result from nerve compression or irritation.
Passive Range of Motion (PROM)
The range of motion that can be achieved when an external force moves a joint without voluntary muscle contraction. PROM is assessed when the patient cannot actively move the joint.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
Anterior knee pain related to the patellofemoral joint. PFPS is common in adolescents and young adults and is often related to biomechanical factors.
Pectoralis Major
The large muscle of the chest wall that flexes, adducts, and internally rotates the shoulder. Pectoralis major injuries occur in weightlifting and contact sports.
Pectoralis Minor
A smaller chest muscle that stabilizes the scapula and can contribute to shoulder dysfunction when tight. Stretching the pectoralis minor is important for improving shoulder mobility.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
The nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. The PNS includes cranial nerves and spinal nerves and their branches.
Phasic
Refers to muscles that are primarily active during movement. Phasic muscles are distinguished from tonic muscles that provide postural support.
Plyometrics
Exercises that involve rapid stretching of muscles followed by concentric contraction. Plyometric training improves power and is used in athletic conditioning.
Postural Sway
The small movements of the body during standing. Increased sway may indicate balance impairment and fall risk.
Posture
The position of the body in space. Good posture involves efficient alignment that minimizes stress on tissues while allowing optimal function.
Pressure-Generated Needling (PGN)
A technique involving the injection of local anesthetic under pressure to treat myofascial trigger points. PGN is used to deactivate trigger points and reduce pain.
Prevalence
The proportion of a population with a condition at a specific time. Prevalence differs from incidence, which is the rate of new cases.
Pronation
See Foot Pronation and Wrist Pronation.
Proprioception
The sense of joint position and movement derived from mechanoreceptors in joints, muscles, and tendons. Proprioception is essential for balance and coordinated movement.
Psoas
A deep hip flexor muscle that originates from the lumbar vertebrae and inserts on the lesser trochanter of the femur. Tight psoas can contribute to low back pain.
Plyometrics
Exercise training involving rapid eccentric-concentric muscle actions to develop power. Plyometric exercises include jumping, bounding, and medicine ball throws.
Section Q
Quadratus Lumborum (QL)
A deep back muscle that stabilizes the spine and assists in lateral flexion. The QL is a common source of low back pain and stiffness.
Quadriceps
The large muscle group on the front of the thigh that extends the knee. The quadriceps consist of the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius.
Qualitative Assessment
Assessment based on observation and clinical judgment without precise measurement. Qualitative assessment provides valuable information about movement quality and function.
Quantitative Assessment
Assessment that uses precise measurements and standardized tools. Quantitative assessment provides objective data that can be tracked over time.
Section R
Radicular Pain
Pain that follows the distribution of a nerve root. Radicular pain results from compression or irritation of a nerve root and is often described as shooting or electric-shock-like.
Range of Motion (ROM)
The amount of movement available at a joint. ROM is measured in degrees and includes active range (with patient effort) and passive range (with external force).
Red Flag
A sign or symptom that may indicate serious underlying pathology requiring urgent medical evaluation. Red flags include unexplained weight loss, fever, history of cancer, and progressive neurological deficit.
Referral Pattern
The characteristic distribution of pain from a trigger point or structure. Knowledge of referral patterns helps identify the source of pain.
Referred Pain
Pain perceived in an area distant from its source. Referred pain occurs because of shared neural pathways and is common in visceral and myofascial pain.
Rehabilitation
The process of restoring function following injury, illness, or disability. Rehabilitation addresses physical, psychological, and social aspects of recovery.
Relapsing-Remitting
A pattern of disease characterized by episodes of worsening (relapse) followed by periods of relative stability (remission). Multiple sclerosis often follows this pattern.
Relaxation Response
A state of decreased physiological arousal characterized by reduced heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension. Relaxation techniques can promote this response.
Repetition Maximum
The maximum weight that can be lifted for a specified number of repetitions. The 1-repetition maximum (1RM) is the maximum weight that can be lifted once.
Resisted Isometric Testing
A muscle testing method in which the patient attempts to move against resistance while the joint is held stationary. This tests the ability to generate force without joint movement.
RICE
An acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation—the standard first aid for acute soft tissue injuries. POLICE (Protection, Optimal Loading, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is a more modern approach.
Rotator Cuff
The group of four muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, subscapularis) that stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Rotator cuff tears are common shoulder injuries.
RPE
See Rate of Perceived Exertion.
Section S
Sacroiliac Joint (SIJ)
The joint between the sacrum and ilium. SI joint dysfunction is a common cause of low back and buttock pain.
Scapula
The shoulder blade, a flat triangular bone on the upper back. Scapular position and movement are important for shoulder function.
Scapular Dyskinesis
Abnormal movement of the scapula during arm elevation. Scapular dyskinesis is associated with shoulder pain and may result from weakness or tightness of scapular muscles.
Sciatica
Pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve distribution, typically from the buttock down the back of the thigh to the leg. Sciatica usually results from lumbar nerve root compression.
Sensory Integration
The process by which the brain organizes sensory information for functional use. Sensory integration is important for motor control and body awareness.
Shedding Sign
A clinical sign indicating partial rotator cuff tear, in which the patient cannot maintain the arm in a position of 90 degrees of shoulder abduction.
Shoulder Impingement
Compression of the rotator cuff tendons beneath the acromion during shoulder elevation. Impingement causes pain and may lead to rotator cuff damage.
Soft Tissue Mobilization (STM)
Hands-on techniques that address restrictions in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia. STM includes various forms of massage and myofascial release.
Spasticity
A velocity-dependent increase in muscle tone resulting from upper motor neuron lesion. Spasticity is characterized by increased resistance to passive stretch and may cause functional limitation.
Specificity
The principle that adaptations to training are specific to the type of training performed. Strength training produces strength gains, while endurance training produces endurance gains.
Speed’s Test
A clinical test for biceps tendinitis or labral pathology. The test is positive if pain is reproduced with resisted forearm supination and elbow flexion.
Spondylolisthesis
Forward displacement of one vertebra on another. Spondylolisthesis may cause low back pain and, if severe, neurological symptoms.
Sprain
Injury to a ligament. Sprains are classified by severity: Grade I (mild stretching), Grade II (partial tear), Grade III (complete tear).
Strain
Injury to a muscle or tendon. Like sprains, strains are classified by severity based on the extent of muscle fiber damage.
Stress Fracture
A fracture caused by repetitive loading that exceeds the bone’s capacity for repair. Stress fractures are common in runners and military recruits.
Stretch Reflex
A protective reflex that causes muscle contraction when the muscle is stretched too quickly or forcefully. The stretch reflex limits range of motion and can be triggered during aggressive stretching.
Subacromial Space
The space beneath the acromion through which the rotator cuff tendons pass. Narrowing of this space contributes to shoulder impingement.
Supine
Lying on the back, face upward.
Synergist
A muscle that assists the agonist in producing a movement. Synergists may stabilize or assist the primary mover.
Systemic
Relating to the whole body rather than a specific part. Systemic conditions affect multiple body systems.
Section T
Tendinopathy
A clinical term for tendon pathology, including tendinitis (inflammatory) and tendinosis (degenerative). Common tendinopathies include Achilles tendinopathy and lateral epicondylitis.
Tendon
A tough band of fibrous tissue that connects muscle to bone. Tendons transmit the force of muscle contraction to produce movement.
TENS
See Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation.
Tension-Type Headache
The most common type of headache, characterized by bilateral mild to moderate pain with a pressing or tightening quality. Tension-type headache may be related to pericranial muscle tenderness.
Thoracic Spine
The middle portion of the spine, consisting of twelve thoracic vertebrae (T1-T12). The thoracic spine attaches to the ribs and provides structural support.
Tibial Tuberosity
A bony prominence on the anterior proximal tibia where the patellar ligament attaches. The tibial tuberosity is used as a landmark for assessment and palpation.
Tonic
Refers to muscles that provide continuous low-level activation for postural support. Tonic muscles are active during standing and have a high proportion of slow-twitch fibers.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
A modality that uses electrical current to stimulate nerves for pain relief. TENS works through gate control and endogenous opioid mechanisms.
Trigger Point
See Myofascial Trigger Point.
Section U
Ultrasound (Therapeutic)
A modality that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce thermal and non-thermal effects in tissues. Therapeutic ultrasound is used for tissue healing and pain relief.
Upper Motor Neuron (UMN)
A neuron that carries signals from the brain to the spinal cord. UMN lesions cause spasticity, hyperreflexia, and other signs of upper motor neuron syndrome.
Vastus Medialis Obliquus (VMO)
The portion of the vastus medialis muscle that attaches obliquely to the medial patella. The VMO is important for patellar tracking and is often targeted in knee rehabilitation.
Velocity
The speed of movement, measured in distance per unit time. Training at different velocities produces different training adaptations.
Vertebrae
The individual bones of the spine. The spine consists of 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 fused sacral, and 4 fused coccygeal vertebrae.
Visceral
Relating to the internal organs. Visceral pain is often poorly localized and may be referred to somatic structures.
VMO
See Vastus Medialis Obliquus.
Section W-Z
Weight Bearing as Tolerated (WBAT)
A classification indicating that the patient can place as much weight on the affected limb as comfortable, without exceeding pain tolerance.
White Flag
A sign or symptom that suggests a psychological component to pain and may indicate a need for psychological intervention. White flags include disproportionate pain, pain behaviors, and social withdrawal.
Wolff’s Law
The principle that bone adapts to the loads under which it is placed. Bone remodels along lines of stress, becoming stronger in areas of high loading and weaker in areas of disuse.
Wrist Pronation
Rotation of the forearm that brings the palm face downward. Pronation occurs at the proximal and distal radioulnar joints.
Yergason’s Test
A clinical test for biceps tendinitis or labral pathology. The test is positive if pain or apprehension is produced with resisted forearm supination and elbow flexion while the shoulder is abducted to 90 degrees.
YBalance Test
A dynamic balance test that assesses anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral reach. The YBalance Test is used to assess functional symmetry and injury risk.
Z-Disc
The boundary between sarcomeres in muscle fibers. Z-discs provide structural support for the sarcomere and may be involved in some myopathies.
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Conclusion
This comprehensive glossary provides definitions and explanations of the terminology commonly used in physiotherapy practice. Understanding this language helps patients communicate effectively with their healthcare providers, interpret assessment findings and treatment plans, and engage more fully in their rehabilitation journey.
The language of physiotherapy continues to evolve as the profession advances and new treatments emerge. This glossary provides a foundation for understanding current terminology while recognizing that the field will continue to develop.
At Healer’s Clinic Dubai, our physiotherapists are committed to clear communication with patients. If you encounter terminology you do not understand during your treatment, we encourage you to ask for explanation. Understanding your condition and treatment empowers you to participate actively in your recovery.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this glossary is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this glossary.
The terms and definitions provided here are for general informational purposes and may not apply to your specific situation. Individual suitability for specific treatments depends on many factors including medical history, current health status, and specific condition characteristics.
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