Physical Therapy Definitions

Cryotherapy

• The application of cold to a patient’s body for therapeutic reasons.

Diathermy

• A type of heat therapy.
• A machine produces high-frequency electromagnetic waves.
• Achieves deep heat penetration in muscle tissue.

Erythema

• Redness of the skin.

Fluid Therapy

• Technique for stimulating healing, particularly in the hands and feet.
• Involves placing the affected body part in a container of glass beads that are heated and agitated with hot air.

Gait

• The way a person walks.
• Consists of two phases: stance and swing.

Goniometer

• A protractor device.
• Measures range of motion.

Hydrotherapy

• The therapeutic use of water to treat physical problems.

Mobility Aid

• Device that improves one’s ability to move from one place to another.
• Also called mobility assistive device.

Physical Therapy

• A medical specialty that uses cold, heat.

Posture

• Body position and alignment.

Range of Motion (ROM)

• The degree to which a joint is able to move.

Therapeutic Team

• A group of physicians, nurses, medical assistants, and other specialists.
• Work with patients dealing with chronic illness or recovery from major injuries.

Thermotherapy

• The application of heat to the body to treat a disorder or injury.

Traction

• The pulling or stretching of the musculoskeletal system.
• Used to treat dislocated joints and joints afflicted by arthritis or other diseases.