Orthopedic Rehabilitation Glossary
100 terms total — 24 showing — Last updated 15 Sep 2026
osteolysis
Progressive bone destruction, often occurring around orthopedic implants due to wear particles.
Contracture
Permanent shortening of muscles, tendons, or other soft tissues resulting in restricted joint motion and functional limi...
Crepitus
An audible or palpable grating sensation that occurs with joint or tissue movement, often indicating underlying patholog...
Cross-Friction Massage
Deep massage technique applied perpendicular to muscle or tendon fibers to promote healing and reduce adhesions.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Prophylaxis
Preventive measures to reduce blood clot formation risk following orthopedic surgery or immobilization.
Delayed Union
A fracture healing process that is progressing more slowly than expected but still showing signs of healing progression.
Distraction Osteogenesis
Surgical technique that gradually lengthens bone by creating controlled separation at a fracture site or osteotomy.
Dorsal Intercalated Segment Instability
A specific pattern of carpal instability where the lunate bone tilts backward relative to the radius.
End-Feel
The tactile sensation experienced by the examiner at the terminal point of passive range of motion testing.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy
Non-invasive treatment using acoustic shock waves to stimulate healing in musculoskeletal conditions.
Femoroacetabular Impingement
A structural abnormality causing abnormal contact between the femoral neck and acetabular rim during hip motion.
Functional Capacity Evaluation
Comprehensive assessment determining ability to perform work-related tasks following injury or surgery.
Functional Outcome Measure
Standardized assessment tool that quantifies a patient's ability to perform daily activities and functional tasks.
Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit
Loss of shoulder internal rotation range of motion, commonly seen in overhead athletes.
glenohumeral joint
Ball-and-socket joint formed by the humeral head and glenoid fossa of the scapula.
Goniometric Measurement
Standardized assessment of joint range of motion using a goniometer instrument.
Hardware Failure
Mechanical breakdown or malfunction of orthopedic implants or fixation devices, requiring assessment for revision surger...
Heterotopic Bone Formation
Abnormal development of bone tissue in soft tissues where bone normally does not exist.
heterotopic ossification
Abnormal formation of bone and cartilage in soft tissues where bone does not normally exist.
Impingement Syndrome
Compression of soft tissues between bony surfaces during joint movement, commonly affecting the shoulder.
Isokinetic Exercise
Exercise performed at constant velocity with variable resistance using specialized equipment.
Isometric Hold
Muscle contraction exercise where tension is generated without joint movement or change in muscle length.
Kinesiophobia
An excessive and irrational fear of movement or physical activity due to concern about re-injury or pain exacerbation.
kinetic chain
A sequence of joints and muscles working together to produce coordinated movement patterns.
Krukenberg Amputation
A specialized forearm amputation technique that creates a functional pincer grip between the radius and ulna bones.