Physical Therapists Diagnosing Musculoskeletal Conditions: Don't Hide What Matters-Just Say It the Right Way.

Perron, Marc; Roy, Jean-Sébastien; Massé-Alarie, Hugo; Hébert, Luc J · J Orthop Sports Phys Ther · 2026

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Abstract

<b>SYNOPSIS:</b> Recently, the use of nonpathoanatomical functional diagnoses has been advocated as a way of reducing patients' psychological distress and limiting the use of low-value interventions aimed at "fixing" perceived causes of pain and disability. However, we argue that not disclosing a pathoanatomical diagnosis may withhold essential information that patients need to fully understand their prognosis and treatment plan, as well as appropriate precautions and contraindications. The way clinicians communicate a pathoanatomical diagnosis can mitigate its potential drawbacks while also supporting patients in making sense of what is happening in their body. <i>J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2026;56(9):566-568. Epub 3 June 2026. doi:10.2519/jospt.2026.14197</i>.

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