Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: What is It? Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (sJIA) is a rare but severe form of juvenile arthritis that affects children. Unlike other types, it involves joint inflammation and systemic symptoms such as high fevers, rash, and inflammation of internal organs. Flare-ups of arthritis, fever, and rash in children characterize systemic juvenile…
Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative joint disease, is characterized by knee pain, stiffness, and swelling. It develops as the cartilage cushioning the knee’s bones decreases, resulting in pain and reduced range of motion. Although there isn’t a cure for osteoarthritis in the knee, regular exercise can help control symptoms, better joint function, as well as…
Introduction The inferior gluteal nerve is also a motor branch of the sacral plexus, coming from the posterior divisions of the L5, S1, and S2 anterior roots. It flows inferiorly and exits the pelvic cavity via the larger sciatic foramen while going inferiorly to the piriformis muscle. The gluteus maximus muscle receives motor innervation from…
The distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) is a synovial pivot joint located between the distal ends of the radius and ulna. It allows for forearm rotation (pronation and supination) by enabling the radius to move around the fixed ulna. Stability is provided by the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC), along with ligaments and muscle support. The DRUJ…
Psoriatic Arthritis: What Is It? Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that combines joint inflammation (arthritis) with skin lesions of psoriasis. It is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, often in the fingers, toes, and spine. One frequent condition that affects…
The Buteyko breathing technique, also known as the Buteyko method, is a type of alternative or additional physical therapy that suggests using breathing exercises mainly to treat respiratory disorders like asthma. Buteyko claims that hyperventilation, or a persistently elevated respiratory rate, is the cause or aggravating factor of many medical problems, including asthma. The technique…
Introduction The superior gluteal nerve, a motor branch of the sacral plexus, originates from the posterior divisions of the L4, L5, and S1 anterior roots. The superior gluteal nerve and vessels travel through the greater sciatic foramen before passing superiorly to the piriformis muscle. From there, the nerve splits into its superior and inferior branches,…
Stretches for posterior pelvic tilt target specific muscle groups to correct the imbalances associated with this condition. Posterior pelvic tilt occurs when the pelvis rotates backward, flattening the lower back and potentially causing discomfort. Stretching tight muscles—especially the hamstrings, glutes, and lower back—can help restore balance and improve posture. Effective stretches include standing quadriceps stretch,…
What is a Chest Muscle Pain? Chest muscle pain, or myalgia, often results from muscle strain, overuse, or injury to the pectoral muscles. It can also be caused by poor posture, muscle imbalances, or referred pain from the neck or upper back. Symptoms include localized soreness, tenderness, and difficulty with movements like pushing or lifting….
Introduction The suprascapular nerve is a branch of the brachial plexus (C5-C6) that supplies motor innervation to the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles, which are key for shoulder movement and stability. It also carries sensory fibers to the glenohumeral joint and surrounding ligaments. The nerve passes through the suprascapular notch, where it is susceptible to compression…
