Therapeutic Services Flashcards Day 1-8

Physical therapy is a healthcare discipline that aims to restore movement and function for those who are suffering from an injury or illness. It involves a variety of interventions, including exercise, manual therapy, and education, to help patients regain strength, flexibility, and coordination.

Physical therapists, also known as PTs, assess and treat patients with movement difficulties. They develop personalized treatment plans based on the patient's needs and goals, working to improve their overall function and quality of life.

Physical therapists work with a diverse patient population, including athletes, people recovering from surgery, and individuals with various health conditions. Their expertise extends to musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiopulmonary conditions.

A goniometer is a tool used to measure joint angles and range of motion. It is an important tool in physical therapy assessment, allowing the therapist to accurately measure the degree of movement in a joint.

Sprains involve injuries to ligaments, which are strong tissues that connect bones. Strains, on the other hand, involve injuries to muscles or tendons.

The healing process often necessitates initial physical therapy post-surgery to stimulate circulation and facilitate recovery. This is called "early mobilization" and aims to prevent complications like stiffness.

Occupational therapists work with patients to help them improve their ability to perform daily activities. They focus on fine motor skills, such as hand dexterity, to help patients regain independence in their everyday lives.

Occupational therapy interventions might involve tasks like threading beads to enhance dexterity and hand function. This could be helpful for patients who have suffered injuries to their hands or arms.

Physical therapy exercises can help individuals regain strength and coordination, focusing on specific muscle groups relevant to their rehabilitation goals. These exercises may involve resistance training, stretching, and balance exercises.

Functional recovery is a key goal of physical therapy. This means helping patients regain the ability to perform everyday activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, and reaching for objects.

Physical therapy interventions aim to address specific movement impairments, such as limited range of motion, muscle weakness, and decreased coordination. They do not aim to treat unrelated conditions, such as high cholesterol.

Patients require continuous support and therapy beyond hospital discharge to ensure ongoing improvement and functional stability. This involves a combination of home exercise programs, regular consultations, and ongoing education.

Strength assessment in physical therapy involves comparing the patient's strength against the therapist's own. This allows for a relative assessment of the patient's strength and helps to determine the appropriate level of exercise.

Early physical therapy post-surgery is associated with quicker recovery times and better outcomes. It helps to reduce pain, increase mobility, and prevent complications like stiffness and muscle atrophy.

Patients with mobility impairments often require adaptations to their daily activities to maintain independence. This may involve using assistive devices, modifying their environment, and learning new techniques.

Spinal cord injuries, hemiplegia (one-sided paralysis), and acquired brain injuries can all affect motor and cognitive functions. Physical therapists work with patients with these conditions to improve their mobility, balance, and coordination.

Not all the symptoms of conditions like arthritis are straightforward; some may be misinterpreted. Physical therapists can help patients understand their symptoms and provide appropriate treatment.

Occupational therapy extends beyond clinical settings, addressing practical needs in daily life to improve overall quality of life for patients. They can work in people's homes, schools, and workplaces.

Physical therapy is effective even if a patient is wheelchair-bound; there are many exercises and techniques that can be adapted for patients who use wheelchairs to improve their strength, flexibility, and function.

Individuals with hemiplegia (one-sided paralysis) can still engage in various activities with appropriate support and therapy. Physical therapists can develop specialized programs to address the specific needs of patients with hemiplegia.

It is important to understand how to adapt daily activities for individuals with mobility impairments. This may involve using assistive devices, modifying their environment, and learning new techniques.

Physical therapists use their knowledge and expertise to create a personalized treatment plan that targets specific impairments and goals. They provide evidence-based interventions and education to help patients achieve the best possible outcomes.