Cervical Radiculopathy vs. Muscle Spasm Pain: Complete Guide with Diagnosis & Assessment

-
Image
Introduction Neck pain can be tricky to diagnose because different conditions can mimic each other. Two of the most common causes are cervical radiculopathy and muscle spasm pain . While both may cause discomfort and limit movement, their causes, symptoms, and treatments differ significantly. This guide explains the differences, subjective and objective assessments , and differential diagnosis —helping healthcare providers and patients understand their condition better. What is Cervical Radiculopathy? Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the neck is compressed or irritated, most commonly at C6 or C7 levels. Causes include herniated discs, cervical spondylosis, osteophyte formation, or foraminal narrowing. Main Symptoms : Sharp, burning, or electric pain radiating into the arm Numbness or tingling following a dermatomal pattern Weakness in muscles supplied by the affected nerve root Pain worsens with neck extension, rotation, or Valsalva maneuver ...
Post a Comment

📚 Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction (SIJD) – Complete Study Guide for DPT Students

-


 Definition

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction (SIJD) refers to abnormal movement or inflammation of the sacroiliac joints, causing pain in the low back, buttocks, or legs.

 

 Anatomy Overview

· SI joint: A synovial plane joint between the sacrum and ilium.

· Ligament support:

Anterior SI ligament

Interosseous ligament (strongest)

Posterior SI ligament

· Function: Transfers weight from upper body to lower limbs and provides stability with limited mobility.

 

Etiology / Causes

Mechanical

Inflammatory

Traumatic

Leg length discrepancy

Ankylosing spondylitis

Fall on buttocks

Pregnancy

Rheumatoid arthritis

MVA (motor vehicle accident)

Muscle imbalance

Psoriatic arthritis

Lifting injuries

 

 

 Clinical Features

· Localized pain near the PSIS

· Pain radiating to buttocks, posterior thigh, or groin

· Aggravated by prolonged sitting, standing, stair climbing

· Reduced lumbo-pelvic mobility

· May feel leg giving way or asymmetrical gait

 

 Differential Diagnosis

Condition

Distinctive Sign

Lumbar disc herniation

Positive SLRT

Piriformis syndrome

Tender piriformis muscle

Hip pathology

Pain on FABER test

Sciatica

Radicular pattern down to foot

 

 

SI Joint Provocative Tests (Cluster)

At least 3 out of 5 positives = SIJ origin likely:

1. Distraction Test

distraction test for SIJ

1. Compression Test

compression test for SIJ

1. Thigh Thrust Test

thigh thrust test

1. Gaenslen’s Test

2. GAENSLON' TEST

3. Sacral Thrust Test

4. SACRAL THRUST TEST

 

Functional Assessments

· Gait analysis: Asymmetrical stride

· Leg length check

· Palpation: PSIS tenderness, muscle tightness

· Movement testing: Standing flexion test

 

 Management Plan

 Acute Phase

· Rest and activity modification

· Ice/heat therapy

· SI belt for support

· Gentle pelvic tilts

· Soft tissue release of glutes/piriformis

‍♀️ Sub-Acute to Chronic Phase

· Muscle energy techniques (MET) to correct alignment

· Strengthening:

o Gluteus medius

o Transversus abdominis

o Multifidus

· Pelvic stabilization exercises

· SIJ mobilizations (Grade I-II initially)

 Patient Education

· Postural training

· Avoid prolonged standing/sitting

· Proper lifting techniques

 

 Manual Therapy Techniques

· Posterior innominate MET

· Anterior innominate MET

· Sacral mobilizations (AP glides)

 

 Home Exercise Program

Exercise

Reps

Pelvic tilts

10–15

Glute bridge

10 reps, 3 sets

Clamshells

15 each side

SI joint isometric squeeze

5 sec hold, 10 reps

 

 

 Red Flags (Refer Out)

· Radiating pain below the knee with positive SLRT

· Bowel/bladder issues

· History of trauma with inability to bear weight

 

 Conclusion

SIJD is often underdiagnosed but causes significant functional limitations. A focused assessment combined with stabilization and manual therapy gives excellent outcomes.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Cervical Radiculopathy vs. Muscle Spasm Pain: Complete Guide with Diagnosis & Assessment

-
Image
Introduction Neck pain can be tricky to diagnose because different conditions can mimic each other. Two of the most common causes are cervical radiculopathy and muscle spasm pain . While both may cause discomfort and limit movement, their causes, symptoms, and treatments differ significantly. This guide explains the differences, subjective and objective assessments , and differential diagnosis —helping healthcare providers and patients understand their condition better. What is Cervical Radiculopathy? Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the neck is compressed or irritated, most commonly at C6 or C7 levels. Causes include herniated discs, cervical spondylosis, osteophyte formation, or foraminal narrowing. Main Symptoms : Sharp, burning, or electric pain radiating into the arm Numbness or tingling following a dermatomal pattern Weakness in muscles supplied by the affected nerve root Pain worsens with neck extension, rotation, or Valsalva maneuver ...
Read more

Unlocking the Power of Muscle Stretching: Cutting-Edge Insights from Recent Research

-
Image
Stretching is a widely practiced activity, especially among athletes and those involved in physical activity. It is commonly recognized for its benefits in increasing flexibility, reducing injury risks and improving overall muscle function. However, understanding the science behind stretching involves exploring the physiological changes that occur in the muscles and connective tissues during and after stretching. Recent research has shed light on the mechanisms and effectiveness of various stretching techniques. Physiological Mechanisms of Stretching Muscle stretching affects muscle-tendon unit, which involves the muscles, its tendon as well as the neighboring fascia. During stretching, fiber extension may lead to a slight increase in muscle length. Plastic and elastic properties of the muscle-tendon unit play a role in this. Elasticity lets the muscle return to normal length after being stretched while plasticity can eventually lead to a permanent change in muscle length. Stretch refl...
Read more