Physical Therapy Evaluation and Rehabilitation

Study Notes

Physical Therapy Evaluation and Rehabilitation

Range of Motion (ROM) Assessment

Definition: A systematic approach to measure the extent of movement in a joint or series of joints
Purposes:
- Identify joint mobility and flexibility
- Detect restrictors to movement (e.g., muscle tightness, joint stiffness)
- Monitor progress and adjust treatment plans
Types of ROM:
- Active ROM (AROM): Patient moves joint through range of motion
- Passive ROM (PROM): Therapist moves joint through range of motion
- Resistive ROM: Patient moves joint against resistance (e.g., weights, bands)

Manual Therapy

Definition: Skilled passive movement of joints and soft tissues to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and promote relaxation
Techniques:
- Joint mobilization: Gentle, controlled movements to increase joint mobility
- Soft tissue mobilization: Techniques to improve flexibility and reduce scar tissue
- Massage: Manipulation of soft tissues to promote relaxation and reduce pain
Goals:
- Improve joint mobility and flexibility
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Enhance muscle strength and function

Goniometria

Definition: A measurement technique to assess joint range of motion using a goniometer (protractor)
Purposes:
- Quantify joint range of motion
- Monitor progress and adjust treatment plans
Types of goniometers:
- Universal goniometer: Measures flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation, and circumduction
- Inclinometer: Measures joint angle in one plane (e.g., sagittal, frontal)

Escalas de Dolor (Pain Scales)

Definition: Standardized tools to assess and quantify pain intensity
Examples:
- Visual Analog Scale (VAS): 0-10 cm scale with "no pain" to "worst possible pain"
- Numerical Rating Scale (NRS): 0-10 scale with "no pain" to "worst possible pain"
- Faces Pain Scale: Facial expressions to rate pain intensity

Lumbalgias Comunes (Common Low Back Pain)

Definition: Acute or chronic pain in the lower back region
Causes:
- Musculoskeletal strain
- Herniated discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Poor posture
Physical therapy interventions:
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Posture correction and education
- Manual therapy and modalities (e.g., heat, cold, electrical stimulation)

Lesiones Medulares (Spinal Cord Injuries)

Definition: Trauma to the spinal cord resulting in partial or complete loss of motor and sensory function
Classification:
- Complete: No motor or sensory function below the level of injury
- Incomplete: Some motor or sensory function remains below the level of injury
Physical therapy interventions:
- Strengthening and range of motion exercises
- Posture and positioning education
- Functional training and activities of daily living (ADLs) retraining

Traumatismos Craneales (Traumatic Brain Injuries)

Definition: Trauma to the brain resulting in cognitive, physical, and emotional changes
Classification:
- Mild: Concussion or mild traumatic brain injury
- Moderate: More severe cognitive and physical impairments
- Severe: Significant cognitive and physical impairments
Physical therapy interventions:
- Cognitive retraining and memory exercises
- Balance and vestibular rehabilitation
- Functional training and ADLs retraining

Accidentes Cerebro Vasculares (Cerebrovascular Accidents)

Definition: Sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain, resulting in neurological deficits
Causes:
- Ischemic stroke (80-90%): Blockage of blood vessel
- Hemorrhagic stroke (10-20%): Rupture of blood vessel
Physical therapy interventions:
- Neuromuscular re-education and strengthening
- Range of motion and mobility exercises
- Functional training and ADLs retraining

Description

Test your knowledge of physical therapy evaluation and rehabilitation techniques, including range of motion assessment, manual therapy, and pain scales. Covers common injuries and conditions, such as low back pain, spinal cord injuries, and cerebrovascular accidents.