PT 560 Physical Agents, Mechanical and Electro-Therapeutic Modalities (2)
This is a practical course designed to introduce a variety of physical therapy procedures and modalities that are used to manage patient problems with skin, connective tissue and pain. The students will be trained in the use of the following physical modalities: superficial and deep thermal agents, hydrotherapy, traction & compression. The electrical modalities that are commonly employed in the physical therapy clinic for evaluation and treatment of various physical dysfunctions will be emphasized. The specific electrotherapeutic applications that will be demonstrated and practiced including those that are utilized for pain modulation, edema reduction, vascular dysfunction, wound care, muscle strengthening and neuromuscular re-education. Students will focus on pre-treatment assessment and physiological response to treatment as the basis for clinical decision making. Patient education, treatment preparation and performance, indications and contraindications will be covered for each modality. Supervised laboratory sessions provide a safe atmosphere for the administration of these agents as well as direct observation of clinical effects. Laboratory sessions and group discussions will be case study driven to foster critical thinking and collaborative learning.
