History and Practice of Physical Therapy

These flashcards cover the historical evolution of physical therapy, key organizational milestones in the U.S. and Philippines, foundational definitions, patient-management model elements, roles and responsibilities of PTs, therapeutic goals, and common conditions treated.

Which ancient civilizations popularized hydrotherapy through baths and river worship?

The Greeks and Romans.

What two major events spurred the development of modern PT techniques in the United States?

The polio epidemics (especially in Vermont) and World War I.

In what year was the Division of Special Hospitals & Physical Reconstruction created in the U.S.?

1917.

What was the purpose of the "Vermont Plan" during the polio epidemic?

To study the causes and effects of polio.

Who made up the "Vermont Plan" team besides physiotherapists?

Orthopedic surgeons, public-health nurses, brace makers, and stenographers.

Why did reconstruction aides push for a national organization after WWI?

Because their titles and practices were plagued by confusion and ambiguity when they entered civilian facilities.

What was the first national organization for PTs called and when was it founded?

The American Women’s Physical Therapeutic Association, founded on January 15, 1921.

Who served as the first president of the American Women’s Physical Therapeutic Association?

Mary McMillan.

What were the three original membership categories in the early PT association?

Charter members (reconstruction aides), active members (graduates of recognized schools), and honorary/associate categories evolving later.

What was the original official journal of the PT association in 1921?

P.T. Review.

To what name was the PT association changed in 1922?

American Physiotherapy Association (APA).

Which three principal divisions of physical treatments existed in the 19th century?

Electrotherapy, hydro-balneology, and massage/exercise.

What major recommendation did the AMA make in June 1923?

To recognize the importance of physiotherapy and occupational therapy as special medical activities.

Which two new PT organizations formed on September 18, 1923?

The American Congress of Physical Therapy and the American College of Radiology and Physiotherapy.

What is the modern name of the national U.S. organization for PTs adopted in 1929?

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

Where was the first Physical Therapy Department established in the Philippines?

San Juan de Dios Hospital.

What is the date of the founding of the Philippine Physical Therapy Association (PPTA)?

December 8, 1964.

Who was the first director of Silliman University Physical Therapy (SUPT) and for how long?

Dr. Lynn Larena-Olegario, for 20 years (1993–2013).

Name the five elements of the patient/client management model in PT.

Examination, Evaluation, Diagnosis, Prognosis (including Plan of Care), and Intervention.

Which four body systems are the primary focus of PT interventions?

Musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular/pulmonary, and integumentary systems.

Differentiate ‘patient’ from ‘client’ in PT terminology.

A patient has disorders needing intervention; a client seeks PT services for maintenance, wellness, or consultation.

List two reasons a PT might refer or consult with another professional.

When a problem lies outside PT scope or when complementary services are needed.

What is the core definition of physical therapy regarding function and disability?

A profession concerned with restoring function and preventing disability following disease, injury, or loss of body part.

Which scientific knowledge areas must a PT understand in depth?

Human growth and development, anatomy, physiology, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, biomechanics, pathology, and psychological responses to injury.

Name at least three broad activity domains incorporated in PT practice.

Direct patient care, consultation, supervision, teaching, administration, research, and community service.

State one principle guiding PT practice related to disability.

Disability can often be prevented or reduced through appropriate physical therapy measures.

Why are family and community resources important in PT?

They are often essential to the success of the therapeutic process and must be included in care.

Give three typical service settings where PT is provided.

Hospitals, community-based programs, and extended-care facilities (among many others).

What physical agents may a PT lawfully utilize?

Therapeutic heat, light, electricity, water, and exercise.

List three therapeutic exercises commonly used by PTs.

Exercises to increase strength, endurance, coordination, and range of motion.

What overarching goal guides every PT treatment plan?

To help the patient reach maximum potential and assume a place in society within their capabilities.

Name three neuromuscular or musculoskeletal conditions commonly treated by PTs.

Hemiplegia, arthritis, paraplegia, quadriplegia, and amputations (any three).

Besides neuromuscular issues, PTs also address impairments from which other disease categories?

Pulmonary and vascular diseases, and many other acute or chronic conditions.

Identify five general career roles a physical therapist may hold.

Staff/supervisor, administrator, consultant, teacher, and researcher.

What year did the PT association’s journal change its title to “Physiotherapy Review”?

1926.

Which U.S. epidemic directly motivated early PT humanitarian efforts?

The polio epidemics.

What does the Prognosis element of PT management include?

Projection of optimal improvement level, timeframe, goals, expected outcomes, and plan of care.

During Intervention, what must PTs coordinate in addition to procedural techniques?

Communication, documentation, and patient/client instruction.