What is the definition of the Physiologic Barrier?

The Physiologic Barrier refers to the limits reached actively by the patient during movement. This barrier is defined by the extent of motion that a person can achieve voluntarily, without assistance from an external force, such as a practitioner. Understanding this concept is crucial in osteopathic practice, as it plays a significant role in assessing and treating musculoskeletal conditions. The physiologic barrier indicates the maximum range of motion that a patient can achieve in a joint or muscle before encountering resistance due to factors like muscle tension or soft tissue limits. Recognizing where this barrier lies allows practitioners to create effective treatment plans aimed at enhancing mobility and relieving discomfort.

In contrast, limits reached passively by the practitioner pertain to a different concept known as the "anatomic barrier," which describes the endpoint of motion that can be achieved through external forces. The maximum range of motion available would also pertain more closely to the anatomic barrier or the total potential motion of the structure. Lastly, a point of pain during motion indicates a subjective experience that can signal a pathologic condition but does not define the physiologic barrier itself.