Bradley University Physical Therapy Department Introduction to a the Physical Therapy Profession
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What is Physical Therapy? Prevents, identifies, corrects, and alleviates acute or prolonged movement dysfunction of anatomic or physiologic origin. The primary objective of physical therapy is to promote optimum human health and function. The APTA
Establishment of the Profession Established by the Surgeon General in 1917 Founded by Mary McMillan Called “Reconstruction Aides”
Beginnings…
Where is Physical Therapy Practiced? Hospitals Private offices Nursing homes Schools Out Patient clinics Private Homes Treatment
Where is Physical Therapy Practiced? Schools Sports Centers Workplaces Public facilities Health Clubs Prevention
What do PTs do? Movement Specialists Restore function Improve mobility
A Systems Approach
PT: A Systems Approach Musculoskeletal
PT: A Systems Approach Neurological
PT: A Systems Approach Cardio pulmonary
PT: A Systems Approach Integumentary System
Specialties Administration Acute Care Clinical Electro Geriatric Neurology Oncology Orthopedic Pediatrics Private Practice Sports
Role of the Physical Therapist Evaluate & Treat
Types of testsv Evaluate –Patient History –Examination –Perform Tests Types of Tests Range of motion Strength Balance Coordination Posture Respiration
Evaluate ability to return home/work/function independently
Treatments Increase strength Increase endurance Increase flexibility Increase balance
Treat –strategy –Identify purpose/outcomes Pain reduction Swelling reduction Interventions Electrical stimulation Hot/cold packs Ultrasound Massage Adaptive devices (crutches, wheel chairs/prosthetics
Misperceptions of Physical Therapists Just give massages Aerobics instructors Never see blood Only treat healthy people who are injured
Future Outlook for the profession Baby boom
Future Outlook for the profession Technology
Future Outlook for the profession Reimbursement
Future Outlook for the profession Female athletics
Future Outlook for the profession Vet care
Future Outlook for the profession Autonomy
Future Outlook for the profession The need for research
Future Outlook for the profession Life expectancy
Assumptions underlying the practice of physical therapy Movement
Assumptions underlying the practice of physical therapy The individual
Assumptions underlying the practice of physical therapy Interaction
Assumptions underlying the practice of physical therapy Autonomy
Assumptions underlying the practice of physical therapy
Education Undergraduate (pre-requisites)
Education Graduate school (MPT, DPT)
Salaries 1998 median salary $56,600 Downstate Illinois starting salary - upper 30s/lower 40s