Physiotherapy Assessment
In order to complete a
physiotherapy assessment,it is
important to carry out a proper and thorough examination. A
correct diagnosis depends upon a knowledge of functional anatomy, an
accurate patient history, diligent observation and a thorough
examination. The purpose of the assessment is to fully and
clearly understand the patient's problems and the physical basis for
the symptoms that cause the patient to complain.
Initially, the
physiotherapist will
conduct a subjective examination whereby information regarding the
mechanism of injury is obtained. Any history of
previous
injuries or conditions, the patient's occupation or hobbies
that
may aggravate or be affected by the condition is also
obtained.
Questions will be asked to determine the type and character of pain,
and an effort will be made to quantify this pain. You will be
asked to rate this pain on a scale from 0 to 10, 0 being no pain, and
10 being so severe that you would seek out an emergency room.
This is a validated scale that provides outcome data unique to your
condition and can be used as a measure to determine quantitatively if
your pain is getting better or worse. The subjective
examination
is guided by the presenting system and complaint.
The objective assessment is guided by the history and the findings of
the subjective exam. In an orthopaedic assessment the
physiotherapist will observe posture, patterns of movement, any
swelling, deformity, or asymmetry. Highly developed skills of
palpation will identify crepitus (noise with the joints or tendons),
areas of heat, tenderness, or palpable deformity. The
objective
examination will use quantifiable measures to establish baseline
measurements to monitor progress, establish a
diagnosis and
guide treatment intervention. Tests will be used to determine
the
type of tissues involved, hypothesize a pathologic process,
and
guide the selection of exercise. Therapists will use their
clinical judgment with consideration of severity, irritability, acuity,
and patient's medical history when selecting tests. Often the
outcome of one test will be a crucial factor in the selection of
additional assessment tools.
Through the use of all the assessment tools at our disposal, our
physiotherapists in Ajax, Whitby, and Oshawa can
paint an accurate picture of the patient's status and monitor progress
and treatment planning.
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