Regional Interdependence
Original Editor - Tyler Shultz
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Purpose & Definition[edit | edit source]
The purpose of this article is to explain the examination model of regional interdependence. Simply put, regional interdependence is the concept that seemingly unrelated impairments in a remote anatomical region may contribute to, or be associated with, the patient’s primary complaint.[1]
Why Use the Regional Interdependence Model?[edit | edit source]
The regional interdependence model of examination allows the PT to go beyond tradional, often vague, and even somtimes misleading musculoskeletal diagnoses, and provide optimal care to their patients. Often times, the contributors for these musculoskeletal disorders may not be as straight-forward as they appear.[2] For example, patients who complain of LBP may actually be suffering from disorders of the hip or knee joint. Examination of proximal and distal joints in the same region of the reported pain and dysfunction is vital to the concept of regional interdependence. It is important to remember, that regional interdependence is different than referred pain. The regional interdependence model focuses primarily on impairments present in proximal or distal segments and is distinct from the phenomenon of referred pain.[2]
Examples in Literature[edit | edit source]
There are numerous examples in the literature of the concept of regional interdependence being a viable option for PT examination and intervention planning. Here are a few examples of regional interdependence at work:
1. Interventions aimed at the hip have been used to treat:
- LBP
- Knee Osteoarthritis
2. Interventions aimed at the lumbar spine have been used to treat:
- Hip pain
- Knee pain
3. Inteventions aimed at the thoracic spine and ribs have been used to treat:
- Neck pain
- Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
4. Interventions aimed at the cervical spine have been used to treat:
- Lateral Epicondylalgia
Recent Related Research (from Pubmed)[edit | edit source]
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References[edit | edit source]
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- ↑ Wainner RS, Flynn TW, Whitman JM. Spinal and Extremity Manipulation: The Basic Skill Set for Physical Therapists. San Antonio, TX: Manipulations, Inc; 2001.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Wainner RS, Whitman JM, Cleland JA, Flynn TW. Regional interdependence: a musculoskeletal examination model whose time has come. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2007;37(11):658-660.
