Current treatment paradigms in the management of soft tissue disorders

Soft tissue disorders are the most common source of musculoskeletal pain, and chronicity and recurrence are common. Many articular complaints are complicated by soft tissue disease and/or dysfunction, and many inflammatory diseases may present with a soft tissue complaint. Early recognition and management of soft tissue injuries is vital for optimal outcomes. In all cases, the underlying principle, besides controlling pain, should be to facilitate tissue repair so that rehabilitation results in full recovery. However, conventional management may not fully address these objectives.