What does the term "torsion" signify in physical therapy?

The term "torsion" in physical therapy refers specifically to a twisting force exerted on a body part or joint. This force can occur in various contexts, such as during movement, injuries, or therapeutic exercises. Understanding torsion is important because it can help professionals assess and treat conditions that arise from such forces, like sprains or dislocations.

In physical therapy, recognizing how torsional forces affect joints and structures can guide the design of rehabilitation programs and prevent injuries. Given this definition, it is clear why the twisting force is central to the understanding and treatment of musculoskeletal issues. In contrast, the other options describe different types of forces or movements that do not encapsulate the specific nature of torsion, focusing instead on compression, stretching, or bending actions.