AHPT 215 - Introduction to Orthopedics

• Demonstrate comprehension of basic orthopedic terminology, principles of clinical assessment, concepts of normal and abnormal structure of musculoskeletal tissue, detection of normal and abnormal joint movement.
• Apply accurate understanding with procedures for diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic/bone disorders, basic concepts of fracture/dislocation pathology, physiology of repair and surgical vs.  Non-surgical management and orthopedic disease with physical therapy rehabilitation management.
• Describe and identify changes in the presence or absence of muscle mass, normal or abnormal length, strength, tone and texture and basic concepts of the myofascial system and connective tissue injuries.
• Demonstrate competence in planning and implementing therapeutic exercise programs for selected orthopedic and surgical conditions and develop strategies to communicate effectively with all stakeholders involved in the complete patient/client experience.
• Apply the basic principles involved in assistive technology including the use of and care of assistive, adaptive, orthotic, protective, supportive, and prosthetic devices; including the individual’s and caregivers ability to care for the device; recognize changes in skin condition as well as safety factors while using devices and equipment.
• Describe and accurately perform PROM, AROM and stretching techniques according to various orthopedic/ surgical conditions.
• Describe basic principles of residual limb wrapping, therapeutic wrapping and athletic/kinesiotaping taping and appropriately perform various taping/wrapping techniques.
• Demonstrate competence in implementing physical therapy interventions identified in the plan of care established by the PT including:
• Application of Devices and Equipment, Manual Therapy Techniques, Gait Training, Patient/Client Education, Therapeutic Exercise.
• Select and perform appropriate test and measures, data collection and observation processes essential for carrying out the plan of care developed by the physical therapist within the scope of work of the PTA in orthopedically involved patients including but not limited to:
• Assistive Technology, Gait, Locomotion and Balance, Joint Integrity and Mobility, Integumentary Integrity, Muscle performance, Pain, Posture, Self- Care and Civic, Community, Domestic, Education, Social and Work Life, Range of Motion.
• Given an orthopedic patient scenario, accurately document following guidelines and specific documentation formats required by state, practice setting and other regulatory agencies.
• Develop an understanding and appreciation of safety and ethical obligation with respect to the role of the PTA in the orthopedic setting.
• Apply knowledge for the selection of mobility/transfer techniques and therapeutic activities of various orthopedic diagnoses based on patient’s level of involvement, weight bearing status, pain, resources available and fiscal considerations of the health care delivery system.  
• Given an orthopedic patient scenario, implement a comprehensive physical therapy plan of care as directed by the PT including knowledge of precautions and safety considerations.
• Identify the different joint mobilization grades for the spine and extremities and their clinical significance including an understanding of contraindications and precautions.
• Perform joint mobilization techniques on selected upper and lower extremity joints.
• Determine when an intervention should not be performed on a patient with an orthopedic condition due to clinical indications, screening tests, pain or when the direction to perform the intervention is beyond that which is appropriate for the PTA.
• Identify and integrate appropriate evidence based resources to support clinical decision making for the functional progression of the orthopedic patient within the plan of care established by the physical therapist.
• Demonstrate effective communication with all stakeholders, including patients/clients, family members, caregivers, members of the healthcare team, and payer sources.
• Explore various clinically relevant special topics and interventions including therapeutic exercise techniques, manual therapy techniques, pharmacology , women’s health, imaging, and future continuing education topics as they relate to the orthopedic patient population.