M Glossary of Terms for
Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine

M

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):

Imaging procedure in which a radio frequency pulse causes certain electrical elements of the injured tissue to react to this pulse and through this process a computer display and permanent film establish a visual image. MRI does not require radiation and is very useful in the diagnosis of soft tissue, disc and meniscus injuries.

Malleolus:

Rounded projection on either side of the ankle joint; the lateral malleolus is the fibula and tha medial malleolus is the tibia.

Mallet Finger:

Injury of the finger tip in which the extension tendon is avulsed off the distal phalanx.

Manipulation:

A surgical procedure involving a passive motion (usually accessory or physiological) in which a thrust is applied under anesthesia.

Massage:

Manipulation of muscles and skin (by kneading and stroking).

Maximal Aerobic Power (MAX VO2):

The maximal volume of oxygen consumed per unit of time.

Medial:

To the inside of the body.

Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL):

Ligament of knee along the medial aspect that connects the femur to the joint.

Medial Epicondylitis:

Golfer's Elbow.

Meniscectomy:

An intra-articular surgical procedure of the knee by which all or part of the damaged meniscus is removed.

Meniscus:

Crescent shaped cartilage, usually pertaining to the knee joint; also known as "cartilage." There are two menisci in the knee, medial and lateral. These work to absorb weight within the knee and provide stability.

Metacarpals:

Five long bones of the hand, running from the wrist to the fingers.

Metatarsals:

five long bones of the foot, running from the ankle to the toes.

Moleskin:

Used to reduce friction, moleskin is a soft material that protects skin. It is often used under casts or bandages or on the feet.

Morbidity:

State of being diseased.

Morton's Neuroma:

Involves the nerves and is usually the result of a trauma to the foot, causing inflammation and sharp pain, usually between the third and fourth toes.

Morton's Toe:

A hereditary condition in which the second toe is longer than the first toe. This can cause mechanical imbalances which produce pain with weight bearing.

MRI: see Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Muscle:

A type of tissue composed of contractile cells or fibers that effects movement of an organ or part of the body. The outstanding characteristics of muscular tissue is its ability to shorten or contract.

Muscle Cramp:

Almost any physical activity can result in muscle cramps. A muscle can cramp when it's already in its most shortened position, and it then contracts. Many people get cramps in their legs. Other causes of cramps include low blood sugar, dehydration, and overexertion.

Musculoskeletal system:

The bones and muscles in the body together form this system.

Myositis:

Inflammation of a muscle.

Myositis Ossification Traumatica:

A benign ossification, usually following severe trauma to a large muscle mass.

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