CH 6 Key Terms: Therapy and Diagnosis

dynamometer

Instrument for measuring degree of muscle power; from root dynam/o meaning "force, energy"; also called ergometer

occupational therapy (OT)

Health profession concerned with increasing function and preventing disability through work and play activities; the goal of occupational therapy is to increase the patient's independence and quality of daily life

physical therapy (PT)

Health profession concerned with physical rehabilitation and prevention of disability; exercise, massage, and other therapeutic methods are used to restore proper movement

rheumatology

The study and treatment of rheumatic diseases

anti-inflammatory agent

Drug that reduces inflammation; includes steroids, such as cortisol, and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs

muscle relaxant

A drug that reduces muscle tension; different forms may be used to relax muscles during surgery, to control spasticity, or to relieve musculoskeletal pain

creatine kinase (CK)

An enzyme found in muscle tissue; the serum CK level increases in cases of muscle damage; creatine phosphokinase (CPK)

electromyography (EMG)

Study of the electrical activity of muscles during contraction