Therapeutic Exercises
Activities designed to restore function, improve mobility, and alleviate pain during therapy.
Range of Motion (ROM)
The extent to which a joint or muscle can move or stretch, classified as active (performed without assistance), passive (using an external force), or active-assisted (a combination of personal effort and external force).
Functional Limits
Functional limits refer to the range of motion in a joint or muscle that, while reduced, is still sufficient for completing essential activities of daily living (ADLs). If a physical or occupational therapist determines that the range is adequate for performing necessary tasks, it is described as being within functional limits" (WFL)
Functional Mobility
Functional mobility involves a person's ability to perform movements necessary for daily activities, particularly within their home environment. Physical therapists assess this by dividing mobility into categories such as bed mobility (moving in bed), transfers (shifting from one surface to another, like bed to chair), and ambulation (walking, with or without assistive devices). This evaluation often follows an injury, illness, or surgery.
Level of Assist (LOA)
This refers to the type and amount of assistance a patient may need to remain functionally mobile. Assistance levels range from full independence to maximal help, including options like contact guard assist, where minimal physical guidance is provided to ensure balance.
Mobile Physical Therapy
A convenient alternative to traditional outpatient therapy, mobile physical therapy brings treatment directly to the patient's home. It is specifically beneficial for individuals with physical or transportation challenges preventing them from attending clinic sessions.
Manual Muscle Test
A manual muscle test evaluates the strength of specific muscles or muscle groups using standardized methods, such as the Oxford Scale. This assessment helps therapists determine functional abilities and monitor progress by examining various movements and joint actions.
Home Health Therapy
Home health therapy refers to therapeutic services provided in a patient's home environment. It typically includes physical, occupational, and speech therapy to address rehabilitation needs, improve mobility, and enhance daily living skills for those unable to travel to a clinic or facility. Home health physical therapy is designed for patients who are medically homebound, meaning they are unable to leave their home without significant difficulty or assistance for medical reasons.
Outpatient Therapy
Outpatient therapy involves receiving therapy services at a dedicated clinic or healthcare facility. Patients travel to the facility for sessions, which may include physical, occupational, or speech therapy, often focusing on functional improvement, pain management, and recovery after injury or surgery.
Therapeutic Modalities
These refer to various treatment techniques used by physical therapists to complement exercise and manual therapy. By utilizing electromagnetic, thermal, or mechanical energy, therapeutic modalities aim to achieve goals such as alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, improving range of motion (ROM), and enhancing circulation. Common methods include ultrasound, thermotherapy, and mechanical traction.