9.2. Diagnosis and Physical Examination in Physiotherapy: Anamnesis in Physiotherapy

9.2. Diagnosis and Physical Examination in Physiotherapy: Anamnesis in Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is a health science dedicated to the study, diagnosis, prevention and rehabilitation of patients with physical, pathological dysfunctions or those caused by accidents or genetic changes. A crucial part of the physical therapy process is the diagnosis and physical examination, which begins with a careful history.

Anamnesis in Physiotherapy

Anamnesis is a fundamental tool in the practice of physiotherapy. This is an initial interview with the patient, where the physiotherapist collects detailed information about the patient's clinical history, current symptoms, past medical history, lifestyle, among other relevant factors. This information is essential so that the physiotherapist can make an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Importance of Anamnesis

Anamnesis is a crucial step in the diagnostic process in physiotherapy. It allows the physiotherapist to understand the patient's condition, identify possible causes of symptoms and determine the best course of treatment. Without a complete and accurate history, the physiotherapist may not be able to identify the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms, which may result in ineffective or even harmful treatment.

Anamnesis Process

In the anamnesis, the physiotherapist will ask the patient a series of questions. These questions may include:

• What are your current symptoms?
• When did the symptoms start?
• Is there anything that aggravates or alleviates the symptoms?
• Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions?
• Are you currently taking any medication?
• Do you have any allergies?
• What is your lifestyle like (exercise, diet, sleeping habits, etc.)?

The physical therapist may also ask more specific questions, depending on the patient's symptoms and medical condition. In addition, the physical therapist may also perform a physical examination to assess the patient's physical condition.

Physical Examination in Physiotherapy

After taking the history, the physiotherapist performs a physical examination. This exam may include an assessment of posture, gait, mobility, muscle strength, flexibility, sensitivity and pain. The purpose of the physical examination is to identify any physical abnormalities that may be contributing to the patient's symptoms.

The physical examination may include a variety of tests and assessments, depending on the patient's symptoms and condition. For example, if a patient complains of back pain, the physical therapist may perform tests to assess spinal mobility, back muscle strength, and sensitivity to pain in the affected area.

Conclusion

In summary, history taking and physical examination are essential components of the diagnostic process in physiotherapy. They allow the physiotherapist to understand the patient's condition, identify the cause of symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan. Through careful history taking and a detailed physical examination, the physical therapist can help the patient regain function, relieve pain, and improve quality of life.

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