Use of various physical agents, such as heat, cold, electricity, ultrasound, and laser, to relieve pain and promote healing.
Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the structure and function of the human body.
Biomechanics: The study of how the body moves and the mechanics of the musculoskeletal system.
Manual Therapy Techniques: The application of hands-on techniques to alleviate pain, stiffness, and increase mobility.
Exercise Prescription: Developing and implementing physical activities that will help clients achieve their therapeutic goals.
Pain Management: The assessment and management of chronic pain that affects daily living activities.
Geriatrics: The assessment and treatment of elderly individuals, who may have additional health complications in conjunction with their physical therapy needs.
Neurology: Understanding the functions and mechanisms of the nervous system.
Pediatrics: The assessment and treatment of children, who may have different needs to adult clients.
Sports Medicine: The prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of sports injuries.
Orthopedics: The assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, including fractures, strains, sprains, and dislocations.
Rehabilitative Modalities: The use of technology and other therapeutic exercises to improve the range of motion, strengthen muscles, and aid in the healing process.
Nutrition and Hydration: Understanding diet and hydration requirements for optimal health.
Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Systems: Understanding the functions and mechanisms of the circulatory and respiratory systems.
Research Methods and Clinical Studies: Understanding the unique requirements and processes involved in clinical trials and research.
Ethics and Professionalism: Understanding the values, standards, and ethical responsibilities of a physical therapist.
Heat therapy: Involves the use of heat to increase blood flow to the affected area, reduce pain and inflammation, and promote healing.
Cold therapy: Involves the use of cold to reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain. This type of modality is commonly used for acute injuries.
Ultrasound therapy: Uses high-frequency sound waves to stimulate blood flow, reduce pain, and promote healing.
Electrical stimulation: Involves the use of electrical impulses to stimulate muscles, reduce pain, and improve circulation.
Massage therapy: Involves the use of massage techniques to improve circulation and reduce pain and tension in muscles.
Traction therapy: Involves the application of a pulling force to the spine or other joint to relieve pressure and reduce pain.
Joint mobilization: Involves the manual movement of a joint to improve its range of motion, reduce pain, and promote healing.
Hydrotherapy: Involves the use of water to provide resistance and aid in the rehabilitation of injured muscles and joints.
Acupuncture: Involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points in the body to relieve pain and promote healing.
Manual therapy: Involves the use of hands-on techniques such as stretching, manipulation, and mobilization to improve range of motion, reduce pain, and promote healing.