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Rehabilitation: Medical Exercise Therapy

Norwegian MET, individualized dosed exercise, chronic musculoskeletal pain

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department. Book Appointment →

What is Rehabilitation: Medical Exercise Therapy?

Medical Exercise Therapy is a structured, dosed therapeutic exercise approach for chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions including low back pain, neck pain, knee osteoarthritis, shoulder impingement, and tendinopathies. Treatment philosophy emphasizes specificity (exercise targets the impaired tissue), high repetition with low load, and progressive dosing under professional supervision.

Initial assessment identifies specific impairments through detailed examination of joint motion, muscle activation, motor control, and provocation tests. Exercise prescription includes 3 to 8 specific exercises performed at 30 repetitions per set with 3 sets per session. Patients attend supervised sessions 2 to 3 times weekly for 8 to 12 weeks while progressing load and complexity.

Strong evidence supports MET for chronic low back pain, knee osteoarthritis, and rotator cuff tendinopathy with effect sizes comparable to surgical interventions for selected conditions. Patient education on pain neuroscience, activity pacing, and self-management complements exercise. Continued home program after discharge maintains gains and prevents recurrence.

Symptoms

Chronic musculoskeletal pain
Persistent functional limitation
Failure of generic exercise programs
Pain interfering with work or sport
Recurrent injury despite rehabilitation

Risk Factors

Sedentary lifestyle and deconditioning
Repetitive strain occupations
Previous musculoskeletal injury
Chronic pain over 3 months
Failed generic physical therapy

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • For persistent musculoskeletal pain over 3 months
  • When generic physical therapy has failed
  • Before considering surgery for chronic pain
  • For return-to-sport after injury
  • For chronic pain self-management training

Treatment Methods

01
Detailed impairment-based assessment
02
3-8 specific dosed exercises
03
30 repetitions × 3 sets per session
04
2-3 supervised sessions weekly for 8-12 weeks
05
Progressive load and complexity
06
Home program for maintenance after discharge

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.