The Flag System and Red Flags in Physical Therapy

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the Flag System and identification of Red Flags in physical therapy.

Red Flag

Signs of serious pathology that may indicate a need for immediate medical attention, such as cauda equina syndrome or tumors.

Orange Flag

Psychiatric symptoms that may affect patient outcomes, including clinical depression and personality disorders.

Yellow Flag

Beliefs and emotional responses that might indicate poor treatment outcomes, such as negative expectations about pain and recovery.

Prognosis

The likely course or outcome of a medical condition or treatment.

Differential Diagnosis (Dx)

The process of differentiating between two or more conditions that share similar signs or symptoms.

Visceral diseases

Diseases affecting internal organs that may present with symptoms similar to musculoskeletal conditions.

Serious Night Pain

Pain that occurs during the night and could indicate an underlying serious condition.

Severe Spasm

Intense muscle contraction that may suggest serious underlying pathology.

Cancer Red Flags

Signs such as persistent night pain, unexplained weight loss, or unusual lumps that may indicate cancer.

Cardiovascular Red Flags

Indicators of potential heart issues, such as chest pain or shortness of breath.

Neurological Red Flags

Symptoms like changes in vision or balance that may indicate neurological issues.

Gastrointestinal Red Flags

Symptoms related to gut health, like severe abdominal pain or unusual bowel changes, that warrant further investigation.

Unrelenting Pain

Pain that lasts longer than 24 hours without improvement, indicating potential serious pathology.