title: [Characteristics of physical therapy in diseases of the musculoskeletal system in the elderly].
abstract: Physical therapy is application of different kinds of energy for treatment. It provokes reactions by stimulation using physiological principles. Physical measures induce immediate effects as well as long-term reactions with adaptation. In diseases of the locomotor system in higher age, physical therapy is applied for diminishing pain and stiffness, amelioration of metabolism and function and especially for the maintenance of functional independence. Also fitness, good health and self-confidence can be stimulated. The age-dependent pecularities of the locomotor system, the skin and the cardiovascular system should be taken into consideration. Each method of physical treatment (hydrotherapy, heat and cold treatment, massages, exercise treatment, electrotherapy) has its age-specific peculiarities, which should be known by the treating physician. Modification of treatment can become necessary also by the kind of the disease. Dosage and technics of physical therapy must be adapted individually and supervised carefully.
authors: Klinik für Rheumatologie, Physikalische Medizin und Balneologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Bad Nauheim.
authors: K L
authors: KL
authors: Schmidt
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000379:methods*
vernacular_title: Die Besonderheiten der physikalischen Therapie bei Erkrankungen des Bewegungsapparates im Alter.