History of Physical Therapy

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts in the history of physical therapy, aiding in the understanding and retention of important terms for the upcoming exam.

Poliomyelitis

A viral disease that can affect nerves and can lead to partial or full paralysis.

Epidemic

A sudden increase in the number of cases of a disease above what is normally expected.

Nerve cell

A cell in the nervous system that transmits nerve impulses.

Receptor

A protein molecule that receives signals from outside a cell.

Capsid

The protein shell of a virus that encases its genetic material.

RNA replication

The process of making a copy of RNA.

Hydrotherapy

A technique using water to alleviate discomfort and promote physical well-being.

Reconstruction aides

Early practitioners who provided physical therapy services during and after WWI.

Therapeutic Exercise

Planned physical activity designed to improve or maintain physical function.

Assistive equipment

Devices that help individuals perform activities that might be difficult due to disabilities.

Massage

The rubbing and kneading of muscles and joints to relieve tension and pain.

Passive exercise

Movement of a joint performed by an external force without the subject exerting effort.

Electrotherapy

The use of electrical energy as a medical treatment.

Quarantine

A period of isolation to prevent the spread of contagious disease.

Polio vaccine

A vaccine used to prevent poliomyelitis.

Physical therapist

A healthcare professional who provides rehabilitation and treatment of injuries and diseases.

Direct Access

The ability for patients to access physical therapy services without a physician referral.

Evidence-based practice

Clinical practice informed by the integration of the best available research.

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

The required degree for entry-level practice of physical therapy.

Outpatient services

Medical services provided to individuals who are not admitted to a hospital.

Medicare

A federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older.

AIDS virus

A virus that attacks the immune system leading to serious health problems.

Rehabilitation

The process of restoring a patient to health or normal life.

Cerebral palsy

A group of disorders that affect movement and muscle tone.

Post-polio syndrome

A condition that affects polio survivors, causing new muscle weakness.

Cardiopulmonary

Pertaining to the heart and lungs.

Hydrotherapy

Water therapy used in physical rehabilitation.

Assistive devices

Tools, technologies, or design modifications to help individuals perform tasks.

Functional limitations

Restrictions in performing basic physical actions.

Adaptive equipment

Modifications or tools designed to assist individuals with disabilities.

Incidence rate

The rate at which new cases of a disease occur in a specified population.

Physical therapy modalities

Various methods and techniques used in physical therapy treatment.

Interprofessional collaboration

Cooperation among different health professionals to improve patient care.

Pelvic floor therapy

Therapeutic practices focused on the pelvic floor muscles.

Neuromuscular training

A form of exercise designed to improve the communication between the nervous system and muscles.

Prevention

Measures taken to prevent the occurrence of disease or injury.

Health equity

The equal opportunity for all individuals to achieve their full health potential.

Telehealth

The delivery of healthcare services through telecommunications technology.

Licensure

The granting of licenses to practice a profession.

Peer-reviewed research

Research that has been evaluated by experts in the field before publication.

Outcome measurement

Tools and methods used to assess the results of treatment.

Outcome-based practice

A health approach focused on achieving measurable and effective results.

Best practice standards

Guidelines for providing the highest quality of care based on research and proven outcomes.

Quality assurance

Systems that ensure services meet certain standards.

Advocacy

The act of supporting a cause or policy.

Autonomous practice

When a physical therapist makes independent clinical decisions.

Patient/client values

The personal beliefs and preferences of individuals regarding their care.