Physical Therapy & Movement

Description

Students will be exploring physical therapy and other restorative therapies.  As part of the exploration, this medical education unit review "Brett's Story:  Back to College after a Traumatic Brain Injury".  Brett was severely injured in a skiing accident.  Medical doctors kept him from dying, but the long journey to bring him back to living was supported by the work of allied health professionals.  Students will explore the different professionals that touch Brett's life.

Objectives

  1. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to describe the basic structure and function of the muscular and skeletal systems, explaining how these systems work together to facilitate movement, and apply this knowledge in a diagram labeling activity or quiz.  

  2. Students will identify and describe the roles of physical therapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) within the broader category of allied health professions, and will discuss these roles in a group presentation or written report.  

  3. Students will demonstrate familiarity with common physical therapy terminology by correctly incorporating at least five key terms into a creative fictitious story that reflects their meaning and usage.  

  4. Students will articulate the differences between physical and occupational therapy, and will demonstrate these differences through role-playing or a simulated therapy session.  

  5. Students will identify motor skills commonly practiced in an occupational therapy session and design a set of exercises aimed at improving these skills, presenting their exercise plan in a class demonstration. 

  6. Students will explore the use of telehealth in physical and occupational therapy, and will simulate a telehealth session, creatively demonstrating how to effectively communicate and provide care to a patient using verbal instructions and demonstrations. 

Student Introduction

Welcome to the dynamic fields of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy. In this unit, you'll explore the essential components, terminology, therapeutic techniques, and real-world cases that shape these impactful professions. Begin your journey by familiarizing yourself with the foundations of these disciplines through the resources provided by the American Physical Therapy Association: Introduction to Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy. 

As you advance through this unit, you'll discover how these professions play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals of all ages. From rehabilitation techniques to patient-centered care, you'll gain the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the profound impact these therapies have on recovery and daily living. Engage with the material, explore case studies, and embrace the opportunity to learn about careers that are at the forefront of restoring health and independence to those in need. 

Lesson Outlines