Pathology, Contraindications & Pharmacology
Recognize risk, adapt thoughtfully, and know when to pause or refer.
Lesson 8 of 18
Musculoskeletal Pathologies
Musculoskeletal complaints may arise from muscle, tendon, ligament, joint, bone, or nerve-related structures. Similar symptoms can have different causes, so palpation is not a diagnostic test. Recent trauma, deformity, inability to bear weight, or severe progressive pain may need medical assessment. Massage goals should focus on comfort and function within the therapist's training and scope.
Key points
- Strains affect muscle or tendon; sprains affect ligaments, but diagnosis belongs to qualified clinicians.
- Osteoarthritis involves joint changes and may cause stiffness or pain that varies with activity.
- Osteoporosis increases fracture vulnerability; avoid forceful pressure and follow medical precautions.
- Rheumatoid arthritis may cause systemic inflammation, joint tenderness, and periods of flare.
- Acute swelling, heat, bruising, or limited function calls for protection and assessment before local work.
- Adjust positioning to avoid painful end range and let the client control movement.
Key terms
- Strain
- An injury involving muscle or tendon fibers.
- Sprain
- An injury involving ligament fibers.
- Osteoarthritis
- Joint disease involving cartilage and other joint changes.
- Osteoporosis
- Reduced bone strength that raises fracture risk.
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- An autoimmune inflammatory disease that commonly affects joints.
Memory tip
Comfortable movement is useful information; painful force is not a test.
Clinical note
Avoid direct pressure over suspected fracture, acute joint inflammation, or recent injury. Refer red-flag symptoms and follow any post-surgical or clinician-set restrictions.
Unit checkpoint
Lock it in: match the terms, then test yourself.