Musculoskeletal Key

The following guideline covers a wide array of shoulder conditions seen in the workers’ compensation, as well as the nonworkers’ compensation, population. The guideline is intended to help establish work…

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common entrapment neuropathy, and its risk of occurrence in the presence of repetitive, forceful angular hand movements, or vibration, is common. It is critical…

Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) is the second most common entrapment neuropathy after carpal tunnel syndrome and occurs most commonly at the elbow due to mechanical forces that produce…

Recently, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of opioids to treat chronic noncancer pain. Opioids are also being prescribed in stronger potencies and larger doses for musculoskeletal…

Peer-reviewed medical literature plays a decisive role in policy development at the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). L&I relies on multiple evidence-based mechanisms to make coverage decisions…

The value of treatment guidelines in improving outcomes for patients and controlling costs is significantly enhanced in Washington by incorporating guidelines into a structured UR program. This article describes: (1)…

Washington state’s public workers’ compensation system has had a formal process for developing and implementing evidence-based clinical practice guidelines since 2007. Collaborating with the Industrial Insurance Medical Advisory Committee and…

Andrew S. Friedman, MD, Editor Gary M. Franklin, MD, MPH, Editor

Gregory T. Carter, MD, MS, Editor I want to extend my sincerest thanks to the editors of this issue of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinics of North America , Drs…

Key points • Noninvasive brain stimulation is typically paired with unilateral therapies of the upper limb. • Many recent clinical trials have failed to augment rehabilitative outcomes, especially for patients…