Symptom versus condition modifying care: Can such a dichotomy be useful?

Abstract

This article puts forwards a conceptual model for representing management options for people with musculoskeletal problems. The model is introduced as a dichotomy, that of symptom modifying care versus condition modifying care. From this starting point, the model is discussed and critiqued, culminating in a summary of the possible usefulness of such a model.

Keywords:

• Musculoskeletal
• physiotherapy
• symptom management
• condition management

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Massimo Giuseppe Barcellona

Dr Massimo Barcellona is a Consultant Physiotherapist with expertise in the assessment and management of musculoskeletal problems and associated conditions.