The goal of the physical therapist on a transdisciplinary team

Abstract

The physical therapist（PT）specializing in musculoskeletal physical therapy traditionally applies a biomedical model to restore function in musculoskeletal disorders. However, patients with functional somatic syndrome（FSS）are seen in general orthopedic practice. Since single-discipline treatment of FSS is a challenge, a multiple disciplinarity approach is required. We have introduced a transdisciplinary approach, the biopsychosocial-existential medical model（BPS-E model）,as a clinical system in our hospital. The PT on this team aims to realize comprehensive treatment beyond the boundaries of specialty. Although this presents a challenge for the PT, it adds new purpose in the treatment of FSS, preventive medicine, and the relative health of patients, which will expand the possibilities of musculoskeletal physical therapy.