Physical Therapy Examination Procedures

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and terms related to physical therapy examination procedures based on the lecture notes.

Physical Therapy Examination

The assessment and evaluation process to determine impairments involving muscle, bone, and related structures.

Degree of Freedom

The number of independent movements a joint can perform; can be uniaxial, biaxial, or multiaxial.

Range of Motion (ROM)

The full movement potential of a joint, typically measured in degrees.

Active Range of Motion (AROM)

Movement generated by the patient using their own muscle strength.

Passive Range of Motion (PROM)

Movement of a joint achieved by an external force without muscle contraction.

End Feel

The sensation experienced at the extreme of passive range of motion, indicating the structures that limit joint movement.

Normal End Feel

Occurs when normal anatomy stops joint movement at full range of motion.

Abnormal End Feel

Exists when a physical barrier other than normal anatomy limits joint movement.

Goniometer

A device used to measure the angle of joint range of motion.

Inclinometer

A device that measures the angle of a joint's movement and is often used for spinal assessments.

Anatomical Planes

Imagined flat surfaces that divide the body; includes sagittal, frontal, and horizontal planes.

Anterior

Referring to the front of the body.

Posterior

Referring to the back of the body.

Proximal

Closer to the origin or point of attachment.

Distal

Further away from the origin or point of attachment.

Lateral

Referring to the sides of the body, away from the midline.

Medial

Referring to the middle or the midline of the body.

Flexion

A decrease in the angle between two bones.

Extension

An increase in the angle between two bones.

Abduction

Movement away from the midline of the body.

Adduction

Movement towards the midline of the body.

Rotation

Movement of a bone around its axis.

Circumduction

Movement of a limb in a circular motion.

Dorsiflexion

Bending the foot upwards towards the tibia.

Plantar Flexion

Pointing the foot downwards.

Reliability of ROM Measurement

The consistency and repeatability of measurements taken with a goniometer.

Validity of ROM Measurement

The degree to which a measurement accurately reflects joint range of motion.