What’s Involved

1. Patient History:
   - The assessment typically begins with a thorough discussion of the patient's medical history, including any previous injuries, surgeries, or relevant health conditions.
   - Lifestyle factors, occupational demands, and specific activities or sports participation are also considered.

2. Physical Examination:
   - A hands-on examination involves assessing the range of motion, strength, flexibility, and stability of joints and muscles.
   - The examiner may observe the patient's posture, gait, and overall movement patterns to identify abnormalities or asymmetries.

3. Palpation:
   - Palpation involves feeling and probing specific areas to identify tenderness, swelling, or abnormalities in the soft tissues and joints.
   - This helps in pinpointing the source of pain or dysfunction.

4. Specialized Tests:
   - Various orthopaedic and functional tests may be performed to evaluate specific structures and identify potential issues.
   - These tests are tailored to the suspected musculoskeletal problem and can include assessments for ligament injuries, joint instability, or nerve impingement.

5. Imaging Studies:
   - Depending on the findings and clinical judgment, imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be recommended to obtain a detailed view of the musculoskeletal structures.

6. Functional Assessment:
   - Functional assessments involve evaluating how well a person can perform specific movements or tasks related to their daily activities or sports.
   - This helps in understanding the impact of musculoskeletal issues on functional capacity.

7. Diagnosis and Treatment Plan:- Based on the gathered information, the healthcare professional formulates a diagnosis, identifying the underlying musculoskeletal condition.
   - A tailored treatment plan is then developed, which may include therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, lifestyle modifications, or, in some cases, referral for surgical intervention.

8. Patient Education:
   - MSK assessments often include educating the patient about their condition, explaining the contributing factors, and providing guidance on self-management strategies and preventive measures.