Military Injuries and Physical Therapy

Musculoskeletal pain has been a major complaint among young soldiers who consult physical therapists. In fact, in the United States, nonbattle injuries account for the most outpatient medical encounters among soldiers – over 2 million annually. These injuries can be so severe that they may prevent nearly 65% of soldiers from being deployed due to medical conditions.

Those with musculoskeletal pain usually feel aches throughout the entire body, or as if their muscles have been overworked. Symptoms like fatigue, pain, or sleep disruption are also prevalent among people with musculoskeletal injuries. 

Usually, musculoskeletal disorders affect the musculoskeletal system, consisting of the nerves, tendons, muscles, discs, ligaments, and blood vessels.

Causes of Musculoskeletal Injuries

The following are some of the causes of painful musculoskeletal muscles:

• Forceful exertions
• Repetitive and stereotyped motions 
• Vibration
• Non-neutral postures
• Etc.

Why Do Soldiers Suffer From Musculoskeletal Pains?

Soldiers usually go through intense physical training programs — from basic training and building muscle strength to being deployed in the field. As a result, injuries are bound to happen.

However, when injuries occur, the culture of specialized units prevents immediate injury rehabilitation causing even minor injuries to worsen.

All the same, painful musculoskeletal injuries may be as a result of the following conditions:

• Incorrect exercise programs: This may include employment of extreme physical exercises and overuse
• Battle scars: When someone is injured during training, sometimes they may not be adequately attended and at the right time, making the condition of the injuries worse
• Living conditions: Apart from incorrect exercises, sometimes soldiers in the fields or camps may lack staff like sports psychologists, conditioning coaches, and physical therapists to help them facilitate treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery

How Fusion Physical Therapy Can Help

It is vital for soldiers with musculoskeletal conditions to go through all treatment stages: from the acute phase when the injury occurs to the surgery and rehabilitation process where physical therapy comes in.

When you visit us here at Fusion Physical Therapy, Lawton, Oklahoma, our injury specialists will first examine your medical history. They will also conduct several tests for joint stability and range of motion before they customize a treatment plan for you.

Contact us today and book an appointment.