Physical Therapy Course

Lesson 1 • Biomechanics and Kinesiology Basics

Introduces forces, levers, and movement mechanics as applied to the human body. Enables analysis of normal and abnormal movement patterns.

Lesson 2 • Anatomy and Physiology Review

Reviews musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiopulmonary systems relevant to PT. Builds the anatomical foundation required for clinical assessment.

Lesson 3 • History and Evolution of Physical Therapy

Traces PT's origins from post-war rehabilitation to modern evidence-based practice. Provides context for current professional standards and scope.

Lesson 4 • Professional Ethics and Standards

Covers ethical principles, patient rights, and professional conduct standards. Prepares students to navigate ethical dilemmas in clinical settings.

Lesson 1 • Range of Motion and Flexibility Testing

Covers goniometric and inclinometer measurement of joint ROM. Establishes baseline mobility data for treatment planning.

Lesson 2 • Neurological and Special Tests

Introduces sensory, reflex, and provocation tests for neurological and orthopedic conditions. Builds clinical reasoning for differential diagnosis.

Lesson 3 • Muscle Strength and Endurance Testing

Applies manual muscle testing and dynamometry to quantify strength deficits. Provides objective data for impairment-based diagnosis.

Lesson 4 • Patient History and Subjective Intake

Teaches structured interviewing to gather chief complaint, history, and functional goals. Connects subjective data to hypothesis generation.

Lesson 1 • PT Diagnosis vs. Medical Diagnosis

Clarifies the PT diagnostic process focused on movement impairments rather than pathology labels. Defines scope and limits of PT diagnosis.

Lesson 2 • Prognosis and Outcome Prediction

Applies prognostic factors and clinical prediction rules to estimate recovery timelines. Supports realistic goal setting and patient communication.

Lesson 3 • Clinical Reasoning Frameworks

Introduces hypothetico-deductive and pattern recognition reasoning models. Provides structured approaches to organizing clinical data.

Lesson 4 • Outcome Measures and Reassessment

Selects validated outcome tools to track progress and guide treatment modification. Establishes a reassessment schedule within the plan of care.

Lesson 1 • Aerobic Conditioning and Endurance

Prescribes cardiovascular exercise using intensity, duration, and frequency guidelines. Integrates aerobic conditioning into comprehensive rehabilitation programs.

Lesson 2 • Neuromuscular and Proprioceptive Training

Develops balance, coordination, and joint position sense through targeted exercises. Addresses neuromuscular deficits common after injury or surgery.

Lesson 3 • Stretching and Flexibility Training

Covers static, dynamic, and PNF stretching techniques with dosage parameters. Matches stretching method to patient impairment and healing stage.

Lesson 4 • Strengthening and Resistance Training

Applies progressive resistance principles using open and closed kinetic chain exercises. Guides load, volume, and rest prescription for rehabilitation goals.

Lesson 1 • Neural Mobilization Techniques

Applies neurodynamic assessment and mobilization for peripheral nerve sensitization. Integrates neural techniques with joint and soft tissue interventions.

Lesson 2 • Joint Mobilization Techniques

Teaches Maitland and Kaltenborn graded mobilization for peripheral and spinal joints. Develops skill in grade selection based on pain and stiffness.

Lesson 3 • Principles of Manual Therapy

Establishes the theoretical basis, evidence, and indications for manual therapy. Frames manual techniques within a biopsychosocial treatment model.

Lesson 4 • Spinal Manipulation Techniques

Introduces high-velocity low-amplitude thrust techniques for the spine. Emphasizes patient selection, positioning, and safety protocols.

Lesson 1 • Photobiomodulation and Emerging Modalities

Reviews low-level laser therapy and other emerging physical agents. Evaluates current evidence to support or limit clinical adoption.

Lesson 2 • Thermal Modalities

Examines physiological effects of superficial and deep heat and cold therapies. Guides clinical selection based on healing stage and patient presentation.

Lesson 3 • Electrical Stimulation Modalities

Introduces TENS, NMES, and IFC for pain management and muscle re-education. Applies waveform and parameter selection to clinical goals.

Lesson 4 • Traction and Compression Therapy

Applies mechanical traction for spinal decompression and compression for edema control. Matches technique parameters to patient diagnosis.

Lesson 1 • Cervical and Thoracic Spine Rehabilitation

Treats neck pain, whiplash, and thoracic dysfunction with manual and exercise interventions. Addresses postural contributors and psychosocial factors.

Lesson 2 • Shoulder and Upper Extremity Rehabilitation

Addresses rotator cuff, instability, and elbow and wrist conditions with evidence-based protocols. Progresses from pain control to full functional restoration.

Lesson 3 • Knee and Lower Extremity Rehabilitation

Manages ACL, meniscus, patellofemoral, and ankle conditions through phased protocols. Emphasizes criteria-based progression and return-to-sport testing.

Lesson 4 • Lumbar Spine and Pelvis Rehabilitation

Covers classification-based treatment for low back pain and pelvic girdle dysfunction. Integrates manual therapy, exercise, and education strategies.

Lesson 1 • Stroke and Neurological Rehabilitation

Applies neuroplasticity principles and task-specific training to stroke recovery. Addresses motor, balance, and gait deficits in neurological patients.

Lesson 2 • Geriatric Rehabilitation and Fall Prevention

Addresses age-related changes in strength, balance, and mobility in older adults. Designs fall prevention and functional independence programs.

Lesson 3 • Oncology and Chronic Disease Rehabilitation

Manages fatigue, deconditioning, and lymphedema in oncology and chronic disease patients. Adapts exercise prescription to medical complexity.

Lesson 4 • Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

Applies exercise and breathing techniques for cardiac and pulmonary conditions. Monitors physiological responses and adjusts intensity safely.