Trilingual reference · 250+ terms
Physiotherapy Glossary
Comprehensive reference for patients and clinicians — physiotherapy terms across anatomy, conditions, clinical tests, treatments and concepts, in English, Hebrew, and Spanish. Type to search, or jump by letter or category.
250+ terms · 5 categories
Anatomy
- Acetabulum HEאצטבולום · ESacetábulo
- Cup-shaped socket of the pelvis that articulates with the femoral head to form the hip joint.
- Achilles Tendon HEגיד אכילס · EStendón de Aquiles
- Largest and strongest tendon in the body, connecting the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the calcaneus (heel bone).
- Acromioclavicular Joint (AC) HEמפרק AC · ESarticulación acromioclavicular
- Joint between the acromion of the scapula and the clavicle. Common site of injury in falls and contact sports.
- Acromion HEאקרומיון · ESacromion
- Bony projection of the scapula extending over the shoulder joint, forming the roof of the subacromial space.
- ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) HEרצועה צולבת קדמית · ESligamento cruzado anterior (LCA)
- Ligament inside the knee preventing the tibia from sliding forward relative to the femur. Frequently torn in pivoting sports.
- Adductors HEמקרבים · ESaductores
- Muscle group on the inner thigh (adductor longus, brevis, magnus, gracilis, pectineus) bringing the leg toward the midline.
- Annulus Fibrosus HEטבעת פיברוטית · ESanillo fibroso
- Tough outer fibrous ring of the intervertebral disc surrounding the nucleus pulposus.
- Apophysis HEאפופיזה · ESapófisis
- Tendon-bone insertion site containing a growth plate in young athletes; site of apophysitis in adolescents.
- Articular Cartilage HEסחוס מפרקי · EScartílago articular
- Smooth hyaline cartilage covering bone ends within joints; reduces friction and absorbs load.
- Atlas (C1) HEאטלס · ESatlas (C1)
- First cervical vertebra, supporting the skull. Articulates with the occipital condyles for the "yes" nod motion.
- Axis (C2) HEאקסיס · ESaxis (C2)
- Second cervical vertebra. Its dens (odontoid) acts as the pivot for rotational ("no") head movement.
- Biceps Brachii HEשריר הביצפס · ESbíceps braquial
- Two-headed anterior arm muscle (long and short heads) flexing the elbow and supinating the forearm.
- Brachial Plexus HEמקלעת הזרוע · ESplexo braquial
- Network of nerves (C5-T1) supplying the shoulder, arm, and hand.
- Bursa HEבורסה · ESbolsa serosa
- Fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tendons, muscles, and bones at high-friction points (e.g., subacromial bursa).
- Calcaneus HEעצם העקב · EScalcáneo
- Heel bone; largest bone of the foot. Site of Achilles tendon insertion and Sever's apophysitis in children.
- Carpal Tunnel HEתעלה קרפלית · EStúnel carpiano
- Narrow passage in the wrist formed by carpal bones and the transverse carpal ligament. Houses the median nerve and finger flexor tendons.
- Cervical Spine HEעמוד שדרה צווארי · EScolumna cervical
- Seven uppermost vertebrae (C1-C7) of the spine, forming the neck. Most mobile region of the spinal column.
- Coccyx HEעצם הזנב · EScóccix
- Tailbone — the lowest portion of the spine, fused from 3-5 small vertebrae.
- Coracoid Process HEזיז קוראקואיד · ESapófisis coracoides
- Hook-like projection of the scapula serving as attachment for short head of biceps, coracobrachialis, and pectoralis minor.
- Deltoid HEדלתואיד · ESdeltoides
- Triangular shoulder muscle with anterior, middle, and posterior fibres. Primary shoulder abductor.
- Diaphragm HEסרעפת · ESdiafragma
- Dome-shaped muscle separating thoracic and abdominal cavities; primary muscle of inspiration and key core stabiliser.
- Distal HEדיסטלי · ESdistal
- Anatomical term meaning "farther from the body's centre" (e.g., the wrist is distal to the elbow).
- Dorsal HEגבי · ESdorsal
- Pertaining to the back or upper surface (e.g., dorsal aspect of the hand or foot).
- ECRB (Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis) HEECRB · ESECRB
- Wrist extensor tendon arising from the lateral epicondyle. Primary site of pathology in tennis elbow (~90% of cases).
- Epicondyle HEאפיקונדיל · ESepicóndilo
- Bony prominence above the condyle of a long bone. Lateral epicondyle: tennis elbow site; medial epicondyle: golfer's elbow site.
- Erector Spinae HEשרירי הזקיפה של עמוד השדרה · ESerectores espinales
- Group of muscles (iliocostalis, longissimus, spinalis) running parallel to the spine, extending and stabilising the back.
- Facet Joint HEמפרק פסט · ESarticulación facetaria
- Small synovial joint between adjacent vertebrae. Frequent source of localised back pain (facet joint syndrome).
- Femur HEעצם הירך · ESfémur
- Largest, strongest, and longest bone in the body. Articulates with the pelvis at the hip and with the tibia at the knee.
- Fibula HEעצם השוק הצדדית · ESperoné
- Slender lateral bone of the lower leg, parallel to the tibia. Bears minimal weight; provides muscle attachment.
- Foramen HEפוראמן · ESforamen
- Opening or passage through bone — e.g., intervertebral foramen for nerve roots, sciatic foramen for the sciatic nerve.
- Gastrocnemius HEגסטרוקנמיוס · ESgastrocnemio
- Two-headed superficial calf muscle. Plantarflexes the ankle and assists knee flexion.
- Glenoid HEגלנואיד · EScavidad glenoidea
- Shallow socket of the scapula receiving the head of the humerus to form the glenohumeral (shoulder) joint.
- Gluteus Maximus HEגלוטאוס מקסימוס · ESglúteo mayor
- Largest gluteal muscle. Primary hip extensor and external rotator; key driver of running, climbing, and rising from chairs.
- Gluteus Medius HEגלוטאוס מדיוס · ESglúteo medio
- Lateral hip muscle stabilising the pelvis during single-leg stance. Weakness is the main driver of many lower-limb injuries (Trendelenburg pattern).
- Greater Trochanter HEטרוכנטר מרכזי · EStrocánter mayor
- Bony prominence on the upper-outer femur. Insertion site for gluteus medius and minimus; site of trochanteric bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy.
- Hamstrings HEהמסטרינג · ESisquiotibiales
- Three-muscle group on the back of the thigh (biceps femoris, semitendinosus, semimembranosus). Knee flexors and hip extensors.
- Humerus HEעצם הזרוע · EShúmero
- Long bone of the upper arm. Articulates with the scapula proximally (shoulder) and the radius and ulna distally (elbow).
- Iliotibial Band (IT Band) HEסרט איליוטיביאלי · ESbanda iliotibial
- Thick band of fascia running from the iliac crest to the lateral tibia. Stabilises the knee laterally; site of IT band syndrome in runners.
- Infraspinatus HEאינפרא-ספינטוס · ESinfraespinoso
- Rotator cuff muscle on the posterior scapula. Primary external rotator of the shoulder.
- Intervertebral Disc HEדיסק בין-חולייתי · ESdisco intervertebral
- Fibrocartilaginous cushion between vertebral bodies. Composed of nucleus pulposus (centre) and annulus fibrosus (outer ring).
- Ischial Tuberosity HEגבשושית האיסכיום · EStuberosidad isquiática
- Bony prominence at the base of the pelvis ("sit bone"). Origin of hamstring tendons; site of proximal hamstring tendinopathy.
- Labrum HEלברום · ESlabrum
- Ring of fibrocartilage deepening the socket in ball-and-socket joints (shoulder glenoid, hip acetabulum). Sites of SLAP and acetabular labral tears.
- Lateral HEלטרלי · ESlateral
- Anatomical term meaning "toward the side, away from the midline" (opposite of medial).
- Latissimus Dorsi HEרחב הגב · ESdorsal ancho
- Broad muscle of the back. Adducts, extends, and internally rotates the shoulder. Key in pulling movements (rowing, climbing).
- Levator Scapulae HEמרים השכם · ESelevador de la escápula
- Posterior neck muscle elevating the scapula. Frequent source of trigger points in computer-related neck pain.
- Ligament HEרצועה · ESligamento
- Tough fibrous tissue connecting bone to bone, providing joint stability.
- Lumbar Spine HEעמוד שדרה לומברי · EScolumna lumbar
- Five large vertebrae (L1-L5) of the lower back. Major load-bearing region; common site of disc herniation and pain.
- Median Nerve HEעצב מדיאני · ESnervio mediano
- Major nerve of the upper limb passing through the carpal tunnel. Compression causes carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Medial HEמדיאלי · ESmedial
- Anatomical term meaning "toward the midline of the body" (opposite of lateral).
- Meniscus HEמיניסקוס · ESmenisco
- C-shaped fibrocartilage cushion in the knee — medial and lateral. Distributes load and absorbs shock; commonly torn in twisting injuries.
- Metatarsals HEעצמות המטטרסל · ESmetatarsianos
- Five long bones of the midfoot, between the tarsals and phalanges.
- Nerve Root HEשורש עצב · ESraíz nerviosa
- Initial portion of a spinal nerve emerging from the spinal cord. Compression at the foramen causes radiculopathy.
- Nucleus Pulposus HEגרעין הדיסק · ESnúcleo pulposo
- Gel-like inner core of the intervertebral disc. Herniation occurs when this material extrudes through the annulus fibrosus.
- Olecranon HEאולקרנון · ESolécranon
- Bony prominence at the back of the elbow (tip of the ulna). Insertion of the triceps brachii.
- Patella HEפיקה · ESrótula
- Kneecap. Sesamoid bone embedded in the quadriceps tendon, increasing the mechanical advantage of knee extension.
- Patellar Tendon HEגיד הפיקה · EStendón rotuliano
- Strong band connecting the patella to the tibial tubercle. Site of patellar tendinopathy ("jumper's knee") and Osgood-Schlatter.
- PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament) HEרצועה צולבת אחורית · ESligamento cruzado posterior (LCP)
- Ligament inside the knee preventing posterior tibial translation. Less commonly torn than ACL; usually from dashboard injury or fall on flexed knee.
- Pectoralis Major HEפקטורליס מייג'ור · ESpectoral mayor
- Large fan-shaped muscle of the chest. Adducts and internally rotates the shoulder; primary mover in push-ups and bench press.
- Pectoralis Minor HEפקטורליס מינור · ESpectoral menor
- Small chest muscle from ribs to coracoid process. Tightness contributes to forward-shoulder posture and thoracic outlet syndrome.
- Pelvis HEאגן · ESpelvis
- Ring of bones (ilium, ischium, pubis, sacrum, coccyx) connecting the spine to the lower limbs.
- Peroneal Muscles HEשרירים פרונאליים · ESperoneos
- Lateral calf muscles (peroneus longus, brevis) everting the foot and stabilising the lateral ankle. Often weak after ankle sprains.
- Piriformis HEפיריפורמיס · ESpiriforme
- Deep gluteal muscle from sacrum to greater trochanter. External hip rotator that lies adjacent to (or in 15-20% through) the sciatic nerve.
- Plantar Fascia HEפאשיה פלנטרית · ESfascia plantar
- Thick band of connective tissue along the sole of the foot, from calcaneus to toes. Site of plantar fasciitis.
- Posterior HEאחורי · ESposterior
- Anatomical term meaning "toward the back of the body" (opposite of anterior).
- Pronator Teres HEפרונטור טרס · ESpronador redondo
- Forearm muscle pronating the forearm. Origin of the flexor-pronator group at the medial epicondyle; involved in golfer's elbow.
- Proximal HEפרוקסימלי · ESproximal
- Anatomical term meaning "closer to the body's centre" (opposite of distal).
- Quadratus Lumborum HEקוודרטוס לומבורום · EScuadrado lumbar
- Deep lower back muscle from iliac crest to last rib and lumbar transverse processes. Lateral flexor of the spine; common pain source.
- Quadriceps HEארבע ראשי · EScuádriceps
- Four-muscle group of the anterior thigh (rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, medialis, intermedius). Primary knee extensors.
- Radial Nerve HEעצב רדיאלי · ESnervio radial
- Major nerve of the upper limb supplying wrist and finger extensors. Compression in radial tunnel mimics tennis elbow.
- Radius HEרדיוס · ESradio
- Lateral (thumb-side) bone of the forearm. Articulates with the humerus, ulna, and carpal bones.
- Rotator Cuff HEשרוול המסובבים · ESmanguito rotador
- Group of four muscles (Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Subscapularis, Teres Minor) surrounding and stabilising the shoulder joint.
- Sacrum HEסקרום · ESsacro
- Triangular bone at the base of the spine, formed by fused S1-S5 vertebrae. Articulates with the iliac bones to form the pelvis.
- Scalene Muscles HEשרירי הסקלן · ESescalenos
- Three muscles of the lateral neck (anterior, middle, posterior). Accessory respiratory muscles; involvement in thoracic outlet syndrome.
- Scapula HEשכמה · ESescápula
- Triangular shoulder blade providing attachment for 17 muscles. Its movement (scapulohumeral rhythm) is essential for shoulder function.
- Sciatic Nerve HEעצב הסיאטיק · ESnervio ciático
- Largest nerve in the body, running from the lumbar plexus through the buttock and down the leg. Diameter of an adult finger.
- Serratus Anterior HEסראטוס אנטריור · ESserrato anterior
- Muscle from upper ribs to medial scapula. "Boxer's muscle" — protracts the scapula. Weakness causes scapular winging.
- Sacroiliac Joint (SI) HEמפרק SI · ESarticulación sacroilíaca
- Joint between the sacrum and the iliac bone. Transmits force between spine and lower limbs; common source of low back pain.
- Soleus HEסוליאוס · ESsóleo
- Deep calf muscle beneath the gastrocnemius. Primary plantarflexor of the ankle when the knee is flexed.
- Subscapularis HEסובסקפולריס · ESsubescapular
- Largest rotator cuff muscle, located on the anterior scapula. Primary internal rotator of the shoulder.
- Supraspinatus HEסופראספינטוס · ESsupraespinoso
- Rotator cuff muscle above the spine of the scapula. Initiates shoulder abduction. Most commonly injured cuff tendon (~85% of partial tears).
- Talus HEטלוס · ESastrágalo
- Ankle bone articulating with tibia, fibula, and calcaneus. Carries the entire body's weight to the foot.
- Tendon HEגיד · EStendón
- Tough fibrous tissue connecting muscle to bone. Transmits muscle contraction force to skeletal movement.
- Teres Minor HEטרס מינור · ESredondo menor
- Smallest rotator cuff muscle on the lateral scapula. External rotator and stabiliser of the shoulder.
- TFCC (Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex) HETFCC · ESCFCT
- Cartilage and ligament structure on the ulnar side of the wrist. Stabilises the distal radioulnar joint; commonly injured in falls.
- TFL (Tensor Fasciae Latae) HETFL · EStensor de la fascia lata
- Hip muscle from iliac crest to the IT band. Hip flexor and abductor; tightness contributes to IT band syndrome.
- Thoracic Spine HEעמוד שדרה תורסי · EScolumna torácica
- Twelve vertebrae (T1-T12) of the upper back, articulating with the ribs. Less mobile than cervical and lumbar regions.
- Tibia HEטיביה (שוקה) · EStibia
- Larger and medial bone of the lower leg. Articulates with femur (knee), fibula (laterally), and talus (ankle).
- Tibialis Anterior HEטיביאליס אנטריור · EStibial anterior
- Anterior shin muscle dorsiflexing the ankle. Weakness leads to foot drop; common shin splint site.
- Tibialis Posterior HEטיביאליס פוסטריור · EStibial posterior
- Deep posterior leg muscle inverting the foot and supporting the medial arch. Tendinopathy leads to flat foot.
- Trapezius HEטרפז · EStrapecio
- Large kite-shaped back muscle with upper, middle, and lower fibres. Moves and stabilises the scapula; major site of tension headache trigger points.
- Triceps Brachii HEטריצפס · EStríceps braquial
- Three-headed posterior arm muscle (long, lateral, medial heads). Primary elbow extensor.
- Ulna HEאולנה · EScúbito
- Medial (pinky-side) bone of the forearm. Forms the olecranon at the elbow.
- Ulnar Nerve HEעצב אולנרי · ESnervio cubital
- Major nerve of the upper limb passing behind the medial epicondyle (cubital tunnel). Compression here causes cubital tunnel syndrome.
- Vertebra HEחוליה · ESvértebra
- Individual bone of the spine. The 33 vertebrae are grouped into cervical (7), thoracic (12), lumbar (5), sacrum (5 fused), coccyx (4 fused).
- Wrist Extensors HEאקסטנסורים של פרק כף יד · ESextensores de muñeca
- Forearm muscles extending the wrist (ECRL, ECRB, ECU). Originate at the lateral epicondyle; site of tennis elbow.
- Wrist Flexors HEפלקסורים של פרק כף יד · ESflexores de muñeca
- Forearm muscles flexing the wrist (FCR, FCU, palmaris longus). Originate at the medial epicondyle; site of golfer's elbow.
- ATFL (Anterior Talofibular Ligament) HEATFL · ESligamento talofibular anterior
- Lateral ankle ligament from the lateral malleolus to the talus. Most commonly injured ligament in the body — torn in 70-80% of lateral ankle sprains.
- Brachialis HEברכיאליס · ESbraquial
- Deep elbow flexor lying beneath the biceps brachii, attaching to the ulna. Primary elbow flexor regardless of forearm position.
- Glenohumeral Joint HEמפרק גלנו-הומראלי · ESarticulación glenohumeral
- Main shoulder joint — ball-and-socket articulation between the humeral head and glenoid cavity. Most mobile joint in the body, with the trade-off of relatively low intrinsic stability.
- Iliopsoas HEאיליופסואס · ESiliopsoas
- Combined psoas major + iliacus muscle. Primary hip flexor, with the psoas attaching to the lumbar vertebrae — meaning hip flexor tightness can pull on the lumbar spine.
- Subtalar Joint HEמפרק תת-טלרי · ESarticulación subastragalina
- Joint between the talus and calcaneus, providing inversion and eversion of the foot. Key contributor to foot pronation/supination during gait.
- Synovium / Synovial Fluid HEקרום סינוביאלי / נוזל סינוביאלי · ESmembrana sinovial / líquido sinovial
- Inner lining of joint capsule (synovium) producing the lubricating synovial fluid. Inflamed in synovitis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis); responds to load-induced shear.
- Talocrural Joint HEמפרק קרסול ראשי · ESarticulación talocrural
- True ankle joint — articulation between the tibia, fibula, and talus. Provides plantarflexion and dorsiflexion of the foot.
- VMO (Vastus Medialis Oblique) HEVMO · ESVMO
- Distal-medial fibres of the vastus medialis quadriceps muscle. Stabilises the patella medially during knee extension; weakness contributes to patellofemoral pain.
Conditions
- Achilles Tendinopathy HEטנדינופתיה אכילס · EStendinopatía aquílea
- Degenerative pathology of the Achilles tendon — insertional (at calcaneus) or mid-portion. Eccentric loading is the evidence-based treatment.
- ACL Tear HEקרע ברצועה הצולבת הקדמית · ESrotura del LCA
- Partial or complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament, typically from a non-contact pivoting mechanism. Often requires surgical reconstruction in active patients.
- Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder) HEכתף קפואה · EScapsulitis adhesiva
- Progressive shoulder stiffness and pain due to capsular contracture. Three stages: freezing, frozen, thawing. Resolves over 12-24 months.
- Ankle Sprain HEנקע קרסול · ESesguince de tobillo
- Stretching or tearing of ankle ligaments, usually lateral (ATFL most common). Graded I-III by severity. 30% chronicity rate without proper rehabilitation.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis HEדלקת מפרקים מקבעת · ESespondilitis anquilosante
- Inflammatory autoimmune disease causing progressive spinal fusion. Early-morning stiffness lasting >30 minutes; HLA-B27 association.
- Bursitis HEבורסיטיס · ESbursitis
- Inflammation of a bursa. Common sites: subacromial (shoulder), trochanteric (hip), olecranon (elbow), prepatellar (knee).
- Calcific Tendinitis HEהסתיידות בגיד · EStendinitis calcificante
- Calcium hydroxyapatite deposits within a tendon — most often in the supraspinatus. Severe acute pain when calcium resorbs.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome HEתסמונת התעלה הקרפלית · ESsíndrome del túnel carpiano
- Median nerve compression at the wrist. Numbness/tingling in thumb, index, middle, half of ring finger; nocturnal symptoms typical.
- Cauda Equina Syndrome HEתסמונת קאודה אקווינה · ESsíndrome de cauda equina
- Compression of the lumbar nerve roots below L1. Saddle anaesthesia, bowel/bladder dysfunction. Surgical emergency.
- Cervical Disc Herniation HEפריצת דיסק צווארי · EShernia discal cervical
- Disc material protrusion in the cervical spine, most commonly at C5-C6 or C6-C7. Causes radicular arm symptoms.
- Cervicogenic Headache HEכאב ראש מצוואר · EScefalea cervicogénica
- Headache originating from the cervical spine, particularly C0-C3 dysfunction. Unilateral, triggered by neck movement or sustained postures.
- Chondromalacia Patella HEחונדרומלאציה · EScondromalacia rotuliana
- Softening and breakdown of cartilage on the underside of the patella. Component of patellofemoral pain syndrome.
- CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) HECRPS · ESSDRC
- Chronic pain disorder, typically post-trauma or post-surgery, with disproportionate pain, swelling, autonomic and motor changes. Early physiotherapy is critical.
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome HEתסמונת התעלה הקוביטלית · ESsíndrome del túnel cubital
- Ulnar nerve compression at the elbow (cubital tunnel). Tingling in pinky and ring finger; intrinsic hand weakness.
- De Quervain's Tenosynovitis HEדה קוורן · EStenosinovitis de De Quervain
- Inflammation of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons at the thumb side of the wrist. Common in new mothers; positive Finkelstein test.
- Deep Gluteal Syndrome HEתסמונת העכוז העמוק · ESsíndrome glúteo profundo
- Sciatic nerve entrapment in the deep gluteal compartment by any structure (piriformis, obturator internus, fibrous bands). Umbrella term encompassing piriformis syndrome.
- Disc Herniation HEפריצת דיסק · EShernia discal
- Displacement of intervertebral disc material beyond the normal disc space. Can compress nerve roots, causing radicular symptoms.
- Dupuytren's Contracture HEדופויטרן · ESenfermedad de Dupuytren
- Progressive thickening of the palmar fascia leading to flexion contracture of the fingers (especially ring and little finger).
- Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) HEFAI · ESpinzamiento femoroacetabular
- Abnormal contact between femoral head and acetabulum during hip motion. CAM (femoral) and Pincer (acetabular) types. Causes groin pain, labral tears.
- Frozen Shoulder HEכתף קפואה · EShombro congelado
- Common name for adhesive capsulitis. Distinguished from rotator cuff pathology by loss of passive ROM (not just active).
- Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome HEתסמונת כאב הטרוכנטר המרכזי · ESsíndrome doloroso del trocánter mayor
- Lateral hip pain encompassing gluteus medius/minimus tendinopathy and trochanteric bursitis. Aggravated by side-lying.
- Hamstring Strain HEקרע בהמסטרינג · ESdistensión isquiotibial
- Tear of the hamstring muscle, usually biceps femoris. Common in sprinting; high recurrence rate (up to 30%) without proper rehabilitation.
- Hip Labral Tear HEקרע בלברום של הירך · ESrotura de labrum acetabular
- Tear of the acetabular labrum, often associated with FAI or trauma. Causes deep groin pain, clicking, and pinching.
- Hip Osteoarthritis HEאוסטיאוארתריטיס בירך · ESosteoartritis de cadera
- Progressive cartilage degeneration of the hip joint. Symptoms include groin/buttock pain, morning stiffness, reduced hip ROM.
- IT Band Syndrome HEתסמונת הסרט האיליוטיביאלי · ESsíndrome de la banda iliotibial
- Lateral knee pain in runners and cyclists from compression of the IT band over the lateral femoral epicondyle. Linked to gluteus medius weakness.
- Knee Osteoarthritis HEארתרוזיס בברך · ESosteoartritis de rodilla
- Progressive cartilage loss in the knee. Pain with loading, morning stiffness, crepitus. Strengthening evidence-based; surgery for end-stage.
- Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) HEמרפק טניס · ESepicondilitis lateral / codo de tenista
- Tendinopathy of the wrist extensor origin at the lateral epicondyle (mainly ECRB, ~90%). Eccentric loading (Tyler Twist) is evidence-based; injections worsen 1-year outcomes.
- Little League Elbow HEמרפק זורקים · EScodo de pequeñas ligas
- Medial epicondyle apophysitis or apophyseal avulsion in adolescent throwers. Pitch counts and rest are essential to prevent UCL injury.
- Lumbar Stenosis HEהיצרות תעלת השדרה · ESestenosis lumbar
- Narrowing of the spinal canal in the lumbar region, compressing nerve roots. Classic neurogenic claudication: leg pain with walking, relieved by sitting/flexion.
- Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow) HEמרפק גולף · ESepicondilitis medial / codo de golfista
- Tendinopathy of the flexor-pronator origin at the medial epicondyle. Often comorbid with ulnar neuropathy (25-50% of cases).
- Meniscus Tear HEקרע במיניסקוס · ESrotura de menisco
- Tear of the medial or lateral meniscus, typically from twisting injury (acute) or degenerative change (chronic). Conservative treatment first-line for many cases.
- Morton's Neuroma HEנוירומה של מורטון · ESneuroma de Morton
- Thickening of the plantar interdigital nerve, usually between 3rd and 4th metatarsals. Burning forefoot pain, often with tingling in toes.
- Myofascial Pain Syndrome HEתסמונת כאב מיופאשיאלית · ESsíndrome de dolor miofascial
- Chronic pain disorder featuring myofascial trigger points within tight muscle bands. Treated with manual therapy, dry needling, and corrective exercise.
- Osgood-Schlatter Disease HEאוסגוד-שלטר · ESenfermedad de Osgood-Schlatter
- Apophysitis of the tibial tubercle in adolescents 10-15. Pain below the kneecap with running and jumping. Self-limiting; resolves at growth plate closure.
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) HEכאב פטלופמורלי · ESsíndrome patelofemoral
- Anterior knee pain ("runner's knee") from patellar tracking dysfunction. Linked to hip weakness, foot pronation, and quadriceps imbalance.
- Piriformis Syndrome HEתסמונת הפיריפורמיס · ESsíndrome del piriforme
- Non-discogenic sciatic pain caused by piriformis muscle compression of the sciatic nerve. Diagnosed clinically with FAIR test (88% sensitivity).
- Plantar Fasciitis HEדורבן ברגל / פלנטר פאשיטיס · ESfascitis plantar
- Pain at the heel from plantar fascia degeneration. Classically worst with first morning steps. High-load strength training is evidence-based.
- Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy HEטנדינופתיה של הטיביאליס פוסטריור · EStendinopatía tibial posterior
- Pathology of the posterior tibial tendon, leading to medial ankle pain and progressive flat foot. Eccentric strengthening and orthoses.
- Radiculopathy HEרדיקולופתיה · ESradiculopatía
- Nerve root compression or irritation, causing pain, weakness, or numbness in the corresponding dermatome/myotome.
- Rotator Cuff Tear HEקרע בשרוול המסובבים · ESrotura del manguito rotador
- Partial-thickness or full-thickness tear of one or more rotator cuff tendons. Most commonly the supraspinatus. Many respond to conservative care (MOON Protocol — 75% in atraumatic).
- Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction HEתפקוד לקוי במפרק SI · ESdisfunción sacroilíaca
- Pain and altered mechanics at the sacroiliac joint. Diagnosed by cluster of provocation tests (FABER, thigh thrust, distraction, compression, Gaenslen).
- Scheuermann's Kyphosis HEקיפוזיס שוירמן · EScifosis de Scheuermann
- Adolescent thoracic kyphosis from anterior vertebral body wedging. Diagnosed when ≥3 consecutive vertebrae wedge ≥5°.
- Sciatica HEסיאטיקה · ESciática
- Radicular pain along the sciatic nerve distribution, typically from lumbar disc herniation or stenosis. Differential includes piriformis syndrome.
- Sever's Disease HEמחלת סבר · ESenfermedad de Sever
- Calcaneal apophysitis in active children ages 8-14. Heel pain with activity. Self-limiting; managed with load reduction, calf stretching, and heel cushioning.
- Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome) HEפריוסטיטיס טיביאלית · ESperiostitis tibial / síndrome del estrés tibial medial
- Pain along the medial tibial border in runners. Stress reaction of bone or fascial pull from posterior tibialis/soleus. Distinct from stress fracture.
- Shoulder Impingement HEתסמונת ה-Impingement של הכתף · ESpinzamiento subacromial
- Compression of subacromial structures (supraspinatus tendon, bursa) under the acromion. Modern terminology favours "subacromial pain syndrome."
- SLAP Tear HEקרע SLAP · ESlesión SLAP
- Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior tear — injury at the biceps tendon insertion on the glenoid labrum. Common in throwing athletes.
- Spondylolisthesis HEספונדילוליסטזיס · ESespondilolistesis
- Forward slippage of one vertebra over another. Most common at L5-S1. Graded I-IV by percent slippage.
- Spondylolysis HEספונדילוליזיס · ESespondilólisis
- Stress fracture of the pars interarticularis. Common in adolescent athletes (gymnasts, cricket bowlers); can lead to spondylolisthesis.
- Sprain HEנקע (רצועה) · ESesguince
- Stretching or tearing of a ligament. Graded I (mild stretch), II (partial tear), III (complete rupture).
- Strain HEקריעה (שריר) · ESdistensión muscular
- Stretching or tearing of muscle or tendon. Same I-III grading as sprains.
- Stress Fracture HEשבר מאמץ · ESfractura por estrés
- Bone fracture from repetitive submaximal load (not single trauma). Common sites: tibia, metatarsals, femoral neck. MRI more sensitive than X-ray.
- Subluxation HEסובלוקסציה · ESsubluxación
- Partial dislocation of a joint — articular surfaces remain partially in contact. Less severe than full dislocation; common at shoulder, patella.
- Tendinitis HEטנדיניטיס · EStendinitis
- Acute inflammatory tendon condition. Modern usage: most chronic tendon pain is degenerative (tendinopathy/tendinosis), not inflammatory.
- Tendinopathy HEטנדינופתיה · EStendinopatía
- Modern umbrella term for tendon pathology. Encompasses reactive tendinopathy and degenerative tendinosis. Treatment: progressive loading.
- Tendinosis HEטנדינוזיס · EStendinosis
- Degenerative tendon pathology — disorganised collagen, neovascularisation, increased ground substance. Histologically distinct from inflammatory tendinitis.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome HEתסמונת המוצא התורסי · ESsíndrome del estrecho torácico
- Compression of brachial plexus and/or subclavian vessels at the thoracic outlet. Neurogenic, venous, or arterial subtypes.
- TMJ Disorder (TMD) HEכאב מפרק הלסת · ESdisfunción temporomandibular
- Pain and dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint and masticatory muscles. Myogenous, arthrogenous, or mixed subtypes.
- Trochanteric Bursitis HEבורסיטיס טרוכנטרית · ESbursitis trocantérea
- Inflammation of the bursa over the greater trochanter. Often coexists with gluteal tendinopathy under the umbrella of greater trochanteric pain syndrome.
- Whiplash HEשוט (פגיעת צוואר) · ESlatigazo cervical
- Soft tissue cervical injury from rapid acceleration-deceleration (typically motor vehicle accident). Categorised by Quebec Task Force grades 0-IV.
- Avascular Necrosis (AVN / Osteonecrosis) HEנמק עצם (AVN) · ESnecrosis avascular / osteonecrosis
- Bone tissue death due to disrupted blood supply. Common sites: femoral head, humeral head, scaphoid, talus. Causes include trauma, corticosteroid use, alcohol, sickle cell disease.
- Bone Stress Reaction HEתגובת עקה של עצם · ESreacción de estrés óseo
- Pre-fracture stage of bone overload — inflammation and microdamage visible on MRI before a frank stress fracture line appears. Treatable with load reduction; if ignored progresses to stress fracture.
- Fibromyalgia HEפיברומיאלגיה · ESfibromialgia
- Chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain disorder with fatigue, sleep disturbance, cognitive symptoms. Central sensitization model; treated with graded exercise, education, sleep hygiene, and selected pharmacotherapy.
- Hallux Valgus (Bunion) HEבלט (Hallux Valgus) · EShallux valgus / juanete
- Lateral deviation of the great toe with medial bony prominence at the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint. Conservative care: footwear modification, toe spacers, intrinsic foot muscle strengthening.
- Osteoporosis / Osteopenia HEאוסטיאופורוזיס / אוסטיאופניה · ESosteoporosis / osteopenia
- Reduced bone mineral density. Osteopenia (T-score -1.0 to -2.5) is the precursor stage; osteoporosis (T-score ≤-2.5) carries elevated fracture risk. Resistance training and weight-bearing exercise are evidence-based interventions.
- Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis) HEאצבע הדק · ESdedo en gatillo
- Constriction of the A1 pulley causing finger to lock in flexion and "pop" on extension. Treated with splinting, manual therapy, corticosteroid injection, or surgical pulley release.
Clinical Tests
- Anterior Drawer Test (knee/ankle) HEמבחן Anterior Drawer · ESprueba del cajón anterior
- Knee: anterior tibial translation at 90° flexion to assess ACL. Ankle: anterior talar translation to assess ATFL.
- Apley's Compression Test HEמבחן Apley · ESprueba de Apley
- Prone knee at 90°, axial load with rotation. Pain with compression suggests meniscus tear; pain with distraction suggests ligamentous injury.
- Apprehension Test (Shoulder) HEמבחן Apprehension · ESprueba de aprensión
- Passive external rotation in 90° abduction. Patient apprehension or pain suggests anterior shoulder instability.
- Beatty Test HEמבחן Beatty · ESprueba de Beatty
- Side-lying resisted abduction. Pain in deep buttock suggests piriformis syndrome.
- Cozen Test HEמבחן Cozen · ESprueba de Cozen
- Resisted wrist extension with elbow extended. Pain at the lateral epicondyle suggests tennis elbow.
- Cross-Body Adduction HEמבחן Cross-Body Adduction · ESprueba de aducción cruzada
- Passive horizontal adduction of the shoulder. Pain over AC joint suggests AC joint pathology.
- Drop Arm Test HEמבחן Drop Arm · ESprueba del brazo caído
- Inability to slowly lower an abducted arm. Suggests significant rotator cuff (often supraspinatus) tear.
- Empty Can Test (Jobe Test) HEמבחן Empty Can / Jobe · ESprueba Empty Can / Jobe
- Resisted abduction at 90° with internal rotation (thumbs down). Pain or weakness suggests Supraspinatus involvement.
- FABER Test (Patrick's Test) HEמבחן FABER · ESprueba FABER (Patrick)
- Flexion-Abduction-External Rotation of the hip. Posterior pain suggests SI joint involvement; anterior groin pain suggests hip joint pathology.
- FAIR Test HEמבחן FAIR · ESprueba FAIR
- Flexion-Adduction-Internal Rotation. Reproduction of buttock pain confirms piriformis syndrome (sensitivity 88%, specificity 83% — Fishman 2002).
- Finkelstein Test HEמבחן Finkelstein · ESprueba de Finkelstein
- Thumb-in-fist with ulnar deviation. Pain on the radial wrist suggests De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
- Freiberg Test HEמבחן Freiberg · ESprueba de Freiberg
- Passive internal hip rotation with hip extended. Pain reproduces piriformis syndrome.
- Gaenslen Test HEמבחן Gaenslen · ESprueba de Gaenslen
- Patient supine with one hip and knee fully flexed and the contralateral leg hanging off the table. Provocates SI joint.
- Hawkins-Kennedy Test HEמבחן Hawkins-Kennedy · ESprueba de Hawkins-Kennedy
- Forced internal rotation in 90° forward flexion. Pain suggests subacromial impingement.
- Lachman Test HEמבחן Lachman · ESprueba de Lachman
- Anterior tibial translation with the knee in 30° flexion. Most sensitive clinical test for ACL tear.
- Lift-Off Test HEמבחן Lift-Off · ESprueba de Lift-Off
- Patient lifts hand off lower back against resistance. Inability suggests Subscapularis pathology.
- McMurray Test HEמבחן McMurray · ESprueba de McMurray
- Knee rotation while extending from full flexion. Click or pain suggests meniscus tear.
- Mill's Test HEמבחן Mill · ESprueba de Mill
- Passive wrist flexion with elbow extended. Pain at the lateral epicondyle suggests tennis elbow.
- Neer Impingement Test HEמבחן Neer · ESprueba de Neer
- Passive forward flexion of the shoulder with scapula stabilised. Pain suggests subacromial impingement.
- Ober Test HEמבחן Ober · ESprueba de Ober
- Side-lying hip extension and adduction. Inability of leg to drop suggests IT band tightness.
- Pace Test HEמבחן Pace · ESprueba de Pace
- Resisted abduction and external rotation in seated position. Buttock pain suggests piriformis syndrome.
- Phalen Test HEמבחן Phalen · ESprueba de Phalen
- Sustained wrist flexion (60 seconds). Tingling in median nerve distribution suggests carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Pivot Shift Test HEמבחן Pivot Shift · ESprueba de Pivot Shift
- Knee in valgus with internal tibial rotation, moved from extension to flexion. Reproduction of "shift" suggests ACL tear.
- Slump Test HEמבחן Slump · ESprueba Slump
- Seated, slumped, head flexed, knee extended, ankle dorsiflexed. Reproduction of leg pain suggests neural tension/radiculopathy.
- Speed Test HEמבחן Speed · ESprueba de Speed
- Resisted forward flexion of the shoulder with elbow extended and palm up. Bicipital groove pain suggests biceps tendinopathy.
- Spurling Test HEמבחן Spurling · ESprueba de Spurling
- Lateral flexion + axial compression of the cervical spine. Reproduction of arm symptoms suggests cervical radiculopathy.
- Straight Leg Raise (SLR / Lasègue) HEמבחן Lasègue / SLR · ESprueba de Lasègue
- Passive hip flexion with knee straight. Reproduction of leg pain below 60° suggests lumbar radiculopathy.
- Talar Tilt Test HEמבחן Talar Tilt · ESprueba de inclinación astragalina
- Inversion stress test of the ankle. Excessive talar tilt suggests calcaneofibular ligament injury.
- Thessaly Test HEמבחן Thessaly · ESprueba de Thessaly
- Single-leg stance at 20° knee flexion with internal/external rotation. Pain or click suggests meniscus tear.
- Thomas Test HEמבחן Thomas · ESprueba de Thomas
- Supine, one knee held to chest. Inability of contralateral hip to fully extend suggests hip flexor tightness (iliopsoas, rectus femoris).
- Thompson Test HEמבחן Thompson · ESprueba de Thompson
- Prone calf squeeze. Absence of plantar flexion suggests Achilles tendon rupture.
- Tinel Sign HEסימן Tinel · ESsigno de Tinel
- Light percussion over a peripheral nerve. Tingling/electric sensation in the nerve distribution suggests nerve compression or regeneration.
- Trendelenburg Test HEמבחן Trendelenburg · ESprueba de Trendelenburg
- Single-leg stance with observation of pelvic position. Drop of the contralateral pelvis suggests gluteus medius weakness.
- Yergason Test HEמבחן Yergason · ESprueba de Yergason
- Resisted forearm supination with elbow flexed at 90°. Bicipital groove pain suggests biceps tendinopathy or SLAP tear.
- Beighton Score HEסולם Beighton · ESescala de Beighton
- Nine-point screening tool for generalised joint hypermobility — passive thumb apposition, 5th finger extension, elbow and knee hyperextension, hands flat to floor in forward bend. Score ≥5/9 in adults indicates hypermobility.
- Constant-Murley Score HEסקור Constant · ESpuntuación de Constant-Murley
- 100-point shoulder outcome score measuring pain, daily activities, ROM, and strength. Used in clinical research and as outcome measure for shoulder rehabilitation and surgery (e.g., rotator cuff repair).
- DASH Score HEסקור DASH · ESDASH
- Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire — 30-item self-report measure for upper-limb disability. Used in tennis elbow, rotator cuff, carpal tunnel, and post-surgical rehabilitation outcome tracking.
- KOOS (Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score) HEKOOS · ESKOOS
- Patient-reported outcome instrument with 5 subscales: Pain, Symptoms, Activities of Daily Living, Sport/Recreation, Quality of Life. Used in ACL, meniscus, knee OA rehabilitation tracking.
- NPRS / VAS Pain Scales HENPRS / VAS · ESNPRS / EVA
- NPRS (Numeric Pain Rating Scale): 0-10 verbal scale. VAS (Visual Analog Scale): 100-mm continuous line. Both quantify subjective pain intensity for monitoring across sessions. Minimal clinically important difference: 2 points NPRS, 20 mm VAS.
- Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) HEODI · ESODI / Oswestry
- 10-section questionnaire scoring disability from low back pain in daily activities (lifting, walking, sleeping, social life). 0-100% with categories: minimal (0-20%), moderate (21-40%), severe (41-60%), crippled (61-80%), bedbound (81-100%).
- Single Leg Hop Test HEמבחן הופ רגל אחת · ESprueba de salto a una pierna
- Functional return-to-sport test battery for knee — single hop, triple hop, crossover hop, 6-meter timed hop. Limb Symmetry Index (operated/non-operated) ≥90% is a key criterion for return to sport after ACL reconstruction.
- Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK) HEסולם Tampa · ESescala Tampa
- 17-item questionnaire measuring fear of movement and re-injury. Score range 17-68; higher scores indicate greater kinesiophobia. Strong predictor of poor outcomes in chronic pain and post-surgical rehabilitation.
- Y-Balance Test HEמבחן Y-Balance · ESprueba Y-Balance
- Single-leg dynamic balance test reaching in three directions (anterior, posteromedial, posterolateral). Quantifies asymmetry; >4 cm side-to-side difference correlates with increased lower-limb injury risk.
Treatments & Techniques
- Active Release Technique (ART) HEART · EStécnica de liberación activa
- Soft tissue technique combining provider-applied tension with patient-active movement to address adhesions and fascial restrictions.
- Class IV Laser HEלייזר Class IV · ESláser Clase IV
- High-power therapeutic laser (10-15W) producing photobiomodulation via cytochrome c oxidase activation in mitochondria. Accelerates cellular repair.
- Cryotherapy HEקרח / קריותרפיה · EScrioterapia
- Cold application to reduce pain, swelling, and metabolic activity in acute injury. Modern evidence questions extended use beyond first 24-48 hours.
- Deep Oscillation (HIVAMAT) HEDeep Oscillation · ESoscilación profunda
- Electrostatic-field modality producing gentle pulsed tissue vibrations at depths up to 8 cm without heat. Frequencies 5-250 Hz target lymphatic drainage (low), fascia (mid), or analgesia (high). Unique for use in acute and post-surgical phases when heat is contraindicated.
- Cupping HEכוסות רוח · ESventosas
- Suction cups applied to the skin, creating negative pressure to lift soft tissue. Used for muscle tension; evidence base limited.
- Dry Needling HEדיקור יבש · ESpunción seca
- Insertion of fine filiform needles into myofascial trigger points to elicit local twitch response and pain relief. Distinct from acupuncture.
- Eccentric Loading HEעומס אקסצנטרי · EScarga excéntrica
- Lengthening contractions of muscle/tendon under load. Cornerstone of tendinopathy rehabilitation (Alfredson protocol, Tyler Twist).
- Electrical Stimulation (TENS / EMS) HEגירוי חשמלי · ESelectroestimulación
- TENS for pain (gate control); EMS (NMES) for muscle activation when voluntary contraction is limited (post-surgery, neurological).
- Heat Therapy HEחום · EStermoterapia
- Application of superficial or deep heat to increase circulation, reduce muscle spasm, and improve tissue extensibility.
- Heavy Slow Resistance (HSR) HEHSR · ESresistencia lenta y pesada
- Slow concentric and eccentric loading at high resistance (3-second up, 3-second down). Evidence-based for tendinopathies (Kongsgaard).
- Joint Manipulation (HVLA Thrust) HEמניפולציה · ESmanipulación articular
- High-velocity low-amplitude thrust at the end of available joint range. Distinct from mobilisation by speed and amplitude.
- Joint Mobilization HEניידות מפרק · ESmovilización articular
- Slow passive oscillations applied to a joint within available range. Maitland grades I-IV.
- Kinesio Taping HEקינסיו טייפ · ESvendaje neuromuscular
- Elastic adhesive tape applied with specific tension and direction to support tissues, modify proprioception, and reduce pain.
- Manual Therapy HEטיפול ידני · ESterapia manual
- Umbrella term for hands-on techniques: joint mobilization/manipulation, soft tissue work, neural mobilization.
- McKenzie Method (MDT) HEשיטת McKenzie · ESmétodo McKenzie
- Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy — assessment-based system using repeated movements to classify (derangement, dysfunction, postural) and treat spinal/peripheral pain.
- Mobilization with Movement (MWM / Mulligan) HEMulligan / MWM · ESmovilización con movimiento
- Mulligan-style technique combining sustained joint glide applied by clinician with active patient movement. Pain-free correction of joint mechanics.
- Myofascial Release HEשחרור מיופאשיאלי · ESliberación miofascial
- Sustained pressure on fascial restrictions to release adhesions and improve tissue mobility.
- Neural Mobilization (Nerve Glides) HEניידות עצבית · ESmovilización neural
- Specific movements that mobilise neural tissue (slider/tensioner). Used for radiculopathy, carpal tunnel, sciatica.
- PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) HEPNF · ESFNP
- Stretching and strengthening using diagonal/spiral patterns and reciprocal inhibition (contract-relax, hold-relax).
- Plyometrics HEפליומטריקה · ESpliométricos
- Stretch-shortening cycle exercises (jumps, hops, throws) developing reactive power. Late-stage rehabilitation and athletic performance.
- Soft Tissue Mobilization HEניידות רקמה רכה · ESmovilización de tejidos blandos
- Manual techniques addressing muscle, fascia, and connective tissue restrictions.
- Spinal Decompression / Traction HEמשיכה / decompression · ESdescompresión / tracción
- Mechanical or manual traction applied to the spine to reduce intradiscal pressure. Limited evidence for radiculopathy.
- Stretching (Static, Dynamic, PNF) HEמתיחות · ESestiramientos
- Static (held), dynamic (movement-based), and PNF (contract-relax) modalities for tissue extensibility.
- TECAR Therapy HETECAR · ESTECAR
- Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive — radio-frequency electromagnetic deep heating (4-6 cm) for tendinopathies, spasm, and chronic pain.
- TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) HETENS · ESTENS / electroestimulación nerviosa transcutánea
- Electroanalgesic modality using skin electrodes. High-frequency mode (50-100 Hz) acts via gate-control theory; low-frequency mode (1-4 Hz) triggers endogenous opioid release. Patient-controlled, drug-free pain relief; home units enable self-management.
- Tyler Twist HETyler Twist · ESTyler Twist
- FlexBar eccentric exercise for lateral epicondylitis. Tyler 2010, JSES — DASH score improvement +76% vs +13% with standard physiotherapy.
- Ultrasound Therapy HEאולטרסאונד טיפולי · ESultrasonido terapéutico
- Therapeutic ultrasound (1-3 MHz) for thermal or mechanical effects on tissue. Evidence base mixed; specific indications.
- BFR (Blood Flow Restriction) Training HEאימון BFR (הגבלת זרימת דם) · ESentrenamiento con restricción del flujo sanguíneo
- Pneumatic cuff applied to the proximal limb at controlled pressure (40-80% of arterial occlusion pressure) during low-load exercise (20-30% 1RM). Produces strength and hypertrophy gains comparable to heavy training in patients who cannot tolerate high loads (post-surgical, elderly, painful tendinopathy). Evidence-based for ACL rehab, post-rotator cuff repair, and tendinopathy. Proper cuff width and pressure individualised to limb circumference are essential for safety.
- Cross-Friction Massage (Cyriax) HEעיסוי חיכוך רוחבי · ESmasaje de fricción transversal
- Deep transverse friction across the affected tendon or ligament fibres, developed by James Cyriax. Aims to break adhesions and stimulate localised inflammatory response. Used for chronic tendinopathy and ligament injuries.
- Foam Rolling / Self-Myofascial Release HEפום רולר / שחרור עצמי · ESrodillo de espuma / automasaje miofascial
- Patient applies sustained pressure to muscle and fascia using a foam roller, lacrosse ball, or massage tools. Improves short-term tissue extensibility and reduces perceived muscle soreness. Effects are transient — best as warm-up adjunct, not standalone treatment.
- IASTM (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization) HEIASTM · ESIASTM
- Use of stainless-steel or specialty tools (Graston, HawkGrips, FAKTR) to detect and treat soft-tissue restrictions, scar tissue, and fascial adhesions. Adjunct to exercise; reduces tissue-bound pain in chronic tendinopathies and post-surgical scars.
- Iontophoresis HEיונטופורזיס · ESiontoforesis
- Use of low-level electrical current to drive charged medication (typically dexamethasone or lidocaine) through intact skin to a target tissue. Used for superficial inflammatory conditions (lateral epicondylitis, plantar fasciitis).
- Vibration Therapy HEטיפול ברטט · ESterapia vibratoria
- Whole-body or local vibration applied via platforms or handheld devices. Used for muscle activation, balance training, and bone density preservation. Most evidence in osteoporosis prevention and elderly balance.
Concepts & Principles
- Active ROM HEטווח אקטיבי · ESrango activo
- Joint range of motion the patient can achieve using their own muscle contraction. Limited by pain, weakness, or motor control.
- Apophysitis HEאפופיזיטיס · ESapofisitis
- Inflammation/injury at a tendon-bone insertion in young athletes. Replaces "tendinitis" in pediatric overuse (Osgood-Schlatter, Sever).
- Biomechanics HEביומכניקה · ESbiomecánica
- Application of mechanical principles to biological systems — forces, moments, joint kinematics, gait analysis.
- Centralization HEצנטרליזציה · EScentralización
- McKenzie concept: peripheral pain (e.g., into leg) progressively retreats toward the spine in response to specific repeated movements. Favourable prognostic sign.
- Closed-Chain Exercise HEתרגיל בשרשרת סגורה · ESejercicio en cadena cerrada
- Distal segment fixed (foot on floor); promotes co-contraction and joint stability. Examples: squat, lunge, push-up.
- Concentric Contraction HEקונצנטרי · EScontracción concéntrica
- Muscle contraction during shortening (e.g., biceps curl up phase).
- DOMS (Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness) HEכאבי שרירים מאוחרים (DOMS) · ESDOMS
- Muscle soreness 24-72 hours after unaccustomed eccentric exercise. Resolves spontaneously; not a sign of injury.
- Eccentric Contraction HEאקסצנטרי · EScontracción excéntrica
- Muscle contraction during lengthening (e.g., biceps curl down phase). Greater force production than concentric.
- Functional Movement Screen (FMS) HEFMS · ESFMS
- Seven-test screen (deep squat, hurdle step, lunge, shoulder mobility, ASLR, trunk push-up, rotary stability) identifying movement limitations.
- Graded Exposure HEחשיפה הדרגתית · ESexposición gradual
- Behavioural strategy progressively exposing the patient to feared movements/activities to reduce kinesiophobia and avoidance.
- Hypertrophy HEהיפרטרופיה · EShipertrofia
- Increase in muscle cell size from training. Distinct from hyperplasia (increase in cell number).
- Isokinetic HEאיזוקינטי · ESisocinético
- Constant-velocity contraction with variable resistance matching applied force. Performed on specialised machines for assessment and training.
- Isometric Contraction HEאיזומטרי · EScontracción isométrica
- Muscle contraction without joint movement (length unchanged). Used in early rehab when motion is contraindicated.
- Kinesiophobia HEקינזיופוביה · ESkinesiofobia
- Fear of movement or re-injury. Major barrier to recovery in chronic pain and post-surgical patients. Tampa Scale assesses severity.
- Kinetic Chain HEהשרשרת הקינטית · EScadena cinética
- Concept that body segments transmit forces sequentially. Weakness in one link increases load on segments above.
- Load Management HEניהול עומס · ESgestión de carga
- Strategic balance of training/activity load with recovery to optimise adaptation and minimise injury risk. Acute:chronic workload ratio is one tool.
- Motor Control HEשליטה מוטורית · EScontrol motor
- Coordination of muscle activation patterns to produce desired movement. Often impaired after injury and key target of rehabilitation.
- Movement Pattern HEתבנית תנועה · ESpatrón de movimiento
- Coordinated sequence of muscle and joint actions producing functional movement (squat, hip hinge, push, pull).
- Neuroplasticity HEנוירופלסטיות · ESneuroplasticidad
- The nervous system's ability to reorganise structure and function in response to experience. Underpins motor learning and chronic pain treatment.
- Open-Chain Exercise HEתרגיל בשרשרת פתוחה · ESejercicio en cadena abierta
- Distal segment free; isolated muscle/joint training. Examples: knee extension machine, biceps curl.
- Pain Catastrophizing HEקטסטרופיזציה של כאב · EScatastrofización del dolor
- Tendency to ruminate, magnify, and feel helpless about pain. Strong predictor of chronic pain disability. Pain Catastrophizing Scale measures severity.
- Passive ROM HEטווח פסיבי · ESrango pasivo
- Joint range of motion the clinician can move the patient through with patient relaxed. Limited by joint structure rather than muscle.
- Periodization HEפריודיזציה · ESperiodización
- Systematic planning of training variables (volume, intensity, frequency) over time to optimise adaptation and peak performance.
- Prehabilitation HEפיזיותרפיה לפני ניתוח · ESprehabilitación
- Pre-operative physiotherapy to optimise post-operative outcomes. Strong evidence for ACL, joint replacement, rotator cuff repair.
- Progressive Loading HEעומס פרוגרסיבי · EScarga progresiva
- Gradual increase of exercise load (typically 5-10% per week) to build tissue capacity safely.
- Proprioception HEפרופריוצפציה · ESpropiocepción
- Sense of body position and movement, mediated by mechanoreceptors in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and skin.
- Range of Motion (ROM) HEטווח תנועה · ESrango de movimiento
- Extent of movement at a joint. Active ROM = patient moves; Passive ROM = clinician moves.
- Reactive Tendinopathy HEטנדינופתיה תגובתית · EStendinopatía reactiva
- Early stage of tendon pathology in Cook's continuum model. Acute response to overload; recovers with rest in young patients.
- Return to Sport (RTS) HEחזרה לספורט · ESretorno al deporte
- Structured progression back to athletic activity using objective criteria (strength symmetry, hop tests, sport-specific movements).
- Scapular Dyskinesis HEסקפולר דיסקינזיס · ESdiscinesis escapular
- Abnormal scapular movement pattern. Common contributor to shoulder pain and rotator cuff injuries.
- Sensitization (Central / Peripheral) HEסנסיטיזציה · ESsensibilización
- Increased nervous system responsiveness to input. Peripheral: at injury site. Central: in the spinal cord and brain. Drives chronic pain.
- Trigger Point HEנקודת טריגר · ESpunto gatillo
- Hyperirritable spot in skeletal muscle within a taut band. Produces local and referred pain, treated with manual pressure or dry needling.
- 1RM (One Repetition Maximum) HE1RM · ES1RM
- Maximum weight that can be lifted for one repetition with proper form. Standard reference for strength-training intensity (e.g., "70% 1RM"). Can be estimated from sub-maximal multi-rep tests.
- Allodynia HEאלודיניה · ESalodinia
- Pain provoked by a stimulus that normally would not produce pain (e.g., light touch, gentle clothing pressure). Hallmark of central sensitization in chronic pain and CRPS.
- Atrophy HEאטרופיה · ESatrofia
- Reduction in muscle cell size from disuse, denervation, or aging. Reversible with progressive loading; the foundational reason rehabilitation must include strength work.
- Hyperalgesia HEהיפראלגזיה · EShiperalgesia
- Increased pain response to a stimulus that normally produces pain (i.e., the same pinch hurts more than usual). Sign of peripheral or central sensitization.
- Hypertonia / Hypotonia HEהיפרטוניה / היפוטוניה · EShipertonía / hipotonía
- Hypertonia: increased muscle tone (e.g., spasticity). Hypotonia: decreased muscle tone (e.g., post-stroke flaccid stage). Distinct from voluntary strength.
- Nociception HEנוצי-ספציה · ESnocicepción
- Detection and neural transmission of noxious (potentially harmful) stimuli. Distinct from pain — pain is the conscious perceptual output; nociception is the input. Pain can occur without nociception (e.g., chronic pain) and vice versa.
- Referred Pain HEכאב מקרין · ESdolor referido
- Pain perceived at a location distant from its source (e.g., heart attack felt in left arm; trigger points referring pain to predictable patterns). Reflects shared spinal-cord input pathways.
- RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion / Borg Scale) HERPE / סולם Borg · ESRPE / escala de Borg
- Subjective effort rating: original Borg 6-20 scale or modified 0-10. Used to autoregulate exercise intensity and dose progressive loading without strict %1RM calculations.
- SAID Principle (Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demands) HEעיקרון SAID · ESprincipio SAID
- The body adapts specifically to the demands placed upon it. Foundational principle of rehabilitation specificity — strength training builds strength, endurance training builds endurance, sport-specific drills build sport-specific capacity.
- Sarcopenia HEסרקופניה · ESsarcopenia
- Age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function. Begins in the 4th-5th decade and accelerates after 60. Resistance training is the primary preventive and reversal intervention.
- Spasticity HEספסטיות · ESespasticidad
- Velocity-dependent increase in muscle tone with exaggerated tendon reflexes. Sign of upper motor neuron lesion (post-stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy).
- VO2 Max HEVO2 Max · ESVO2 máx
- Maximum rate of oxygen consumption during incremental exercise. Gold-standard measure of aerobic fitness. Predictor of cardiovascular health and mortality across populations.
Have a clinical question?
Book an initial assessment — clinical questions answered in person, in any of the three languages.