Title: Musculoskeletal/Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Course: PHT 1007 Topics in Physical Therapy > Section: Module 4

Introduction

In this module, we start reviewing the different types of patients and medical problems that we encounter in the field of physical therapy. We will start out with Musculoskeletal/Orthopedic Conditions. This is a very large part of what we do in nearly any environment that you might choose to work in. Any condition that relates to muscle, bone, tendon, ligament, or tissue injury will fall into this category. During the week, we will be discussing the examination and evaluation procedure for patients with musculoskeletal conditions and what types of interventions we can use to address these problems.

The interventions that we discuss in class will be touched on again later in the program. In the spring, you will be learning assessment techniques that include goniometry and manual muscle testing. You will also learn the theory of and application of hot and cold packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, traction, compression, and hydrotherapy. In the summer, you will learn the various types of exercises that we use in physical therapy. Next fall, you will be learning about the care of patients in the hospital and performing activities such as bed mobility, transfers, ambulation training, and wound assessment.

Objectives

To successfully complete this module, you will be expected to:

- discuss the elements of a musculoskeletal examination
- compare and contrast the different pain scale used in physical therapy
- identify major orthopedic interventions and the role of each in physical therapy
- discuss the different types of therapeutic exercise
- describe basic physical agents used to treat musculoskeletal conditions
- identify musculoskeletal conditions such as bursitis, fractures, sprains, strains, dislocations, etc.

Readings

Chapter 4 Musculoskeletal (Orthopedic) Physical Therapy

Module 4_Musculoskeletal.pdf

Assignments

- Complete Readings
- Post and reply in Discussion 4: Musculoskeletal/Orthopedic conditions
- Complete Quiz 4: Musculoskeletal/Orthopedic physical therapy