Musculoskeletal disorders

Self-management in musculoskeletal disorders is presented as a key part of modern, evidence-based care. The lecture explains that these disorders are common across all age groups, often affect work participation, and have a multifactorial origin involving biomechanical, psychosocial, and personal factors. Because of this complexity, a biopsychosocial and patient-centered approach is emphasized rather than a narrow search for a cure or reliance on imaging, medication, or surgery. Learners can expect an overview of current guideline recommendations, including education, exercise, physical activity, and support for return to work. The lecture highlights that self-management means more than giving information: it involves building skills such as problem solving, decision making, action planning, self-monitoring, and using support from clinicians and social networks. It also contrasts self-management with standard patient education and stresses the importance of self-efficacy. Another major theme is the gap between guidelines and actual physiotherapy practice, especially in addressing psychosocial factors. The session also examines therapist beliefs, patient expectations, and the need for training to improve guideline-based care.