Various aspects of the profession are explored including the historical development of Physical Therapist Assisting. Standards of practice, and communications, as well as basic physical therapist assisting skills are covered. The students learn common medical abbreviations and basic documentation of common treatments rendered in physical therapy. This course provides an overview of basic application of physical therapy skills. Students are instructed in patient positioning and draping, and patient transfer techniques.
Students also learn aspects of proper body mechanics.
Instruction includes theories and application of infrared energies, ultrasound, hydrotherapy, and traction. Gait instruction and postural analysis with selection and fitting of assistive ambulatory devices is taught in a classroom and laboratory setting. In this class, you will learn functional anatomy as it relates to the field of physical therapy. Emphasis is placed on study of the skeletal system, arthrology, and the origin, insertion, action, and innervation of major muscles. Students are exposed to applications of the theory and skills of therapeutic exercise in a classroom and laboratory setting.