Physical Therapy Exam Review

Vocabulary flashcards for reviewing key concepts in physical therapy.

American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

Organization representing physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students of physical therapy.

Special Interest Group (SIG)

A group of individuals who share a common interest or goal and come together to advocate for or promote that interest.

Wound Debridement

The removal of dead or damaged tissue from a wound to promote healing.

Traumatic Wound

Wound caused by injury

Neuropathic Wound

Wound caused by nerve damage

Venous Wound

Wound caused by vein damage

Arterial Wound

Wound caused by artery damage

Pressure Wound

Wound caused by pressure on the skin

Burn Wound

Wound caused by flame, heat, chemical, electricity or radiation.

Autolytic Debridement

Using the body's own enzymes to break down dead tissue.

Enzymatic Debridement

Using topical enzymes to break down dead tissue.

Mechanical Debridement

Physically removing dead tissue (e.g., wet-to-dry dressings).

Surgical Debridement

Removing dead tissue with surgical instruments.

Sharps Debridement

Using sharp instruments (e.g., scalpel) to remove dead tissue.

Maggot Debridement

Using maggots to remove dead tissue.

Neuromuscular Physical Therapy

Treatment of conditions that affect the nervous system.

Acute Phase

The initial stage of recovery following an injury or illness.

Subacute Phase

The intermediate stage of recovery following an injury or illness.

Longterm Phase

The chronic stage of recovery following an injury or illness.

Fear Avoidance Behavior

Avoiding activities or movements that are perceived as painful or dangerous.

School Based Physical Therapy

To improve a student's movement and function to participate fully in their education program.

Developmental Screening

Assessments to quickly find developmental delays or those at risk.

Physical Therapy in the NICU

Work on strength, flexibility, range of motion, and educating families on positioning and handling of the infant.

LSVT BIG

High intensity, large movement exercise.

Developmental Milestone

Things most children can do at a certain age.

Gross Motor Skills

Abilities required to control the muscles of the body for large movements.

Fine Motor Skills

Ability to use hands and fingers separately.

Residency (Physical Therapy)

Recognition granted by a professional organization or certification board to physical therapists who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and skills in a specific area of practice.

Fellowship (Physical Therapy)

Advanced training and expertise in a specialized area of physical therapy.

Goals of Therapy Following a Stroke

Assist with relearning walking, sitting, standing, and changing positions.

Local Infection

Symptoms confined to the infected area (redness, swelling, and pain at the site).

Systemic Infection

Widespread symptoms affecting the entire body (fever, fatigue, and mental confusion).

Social Milestone Domain

How children interact with others and show emotion.

Language/Communication Milestone Domain

Ability to express needs and understand communication from others.

Cognitive Milestone Domain

Learning, thinking, problem-solving.

Movement/Physical Development Milestone Domain

Development of gross and fine motor skills.

Direct Access (Physical Therapy)

Evaluation and treatment with a PT (without a physician referral).

Geriatric Physical Therapy

Assessment, treatment, and management of individuals older than 65.