Physical Therapy You are in the official 2000-2001 General Catalog for California State University, Fresno. Trueblood Toni Tyner Physical Therapy Physical therapists, or PTs, are health care professionals who evaluate and treat people with health problems resulting from injury, disease, or biomechanical dysfunction. Physical therapists are integral members of the primary care team and are involved in prevention of disability and promotion of positive health, as well as acting consultants in restorative care. Physical therapy practice today is based on a well-developed body of scientific and clinical knowledge.
Physical therapists apply knowledge from the basic, behavioral, and social sciences.
Physical therapists must also demonstrate effective communication skills. Insight and sensitivity to the unique needs of diverse populations is essential to effectively maximize the individual's functional potential in society. The physical therapy student will be educated with a thorough knowledge base and will be capable of critical thinking, ethical practice, and provision of service to meet the changing needs of society. Students learn effective analysis and interpretation of data with which to diagnose neuromusculoskeletal movement dysfunction, make treatment-planning decisions, and predict outcomes based on sound research principles. The graduate will be prepared to assume the multidimensional roles of the master clinician including patient care, education, consultation, and administration of physical therapy services in the broad spectrum of physical therapy practice settings and across the broad age spectrum from neonates to geriatrics.