9.1. Diagnosis and Physical Examination in Physiotherapy: Introduction to Diagnosis and Physical Examination in Physiotherapy

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Diagnosis and physical examination in physiotherapy are essential processes in clinical practice. These procedures allow physiotherapists to identify different conditions and pathologies, determine the patient's health status and plan appropriate treatment. This chapter of the "Complete Physiotherapy Fundamentals for Beginners" e-book course will provide a detailed introduction to these important concepts.

A physiotherapeutic diagnosis is a clinical conclusion, based on a comprehensive assessment, that describes the patient's health condition. This diagnosis is the result of a clinical reasoning process, which involves collecting and analyzing information about the patient, including their medical history, symptoms, physical examinations and test results. Physiotherapy diagnosis is crucial to determine the most appropriate treatment approach and to monitor the patient's progression.

Physical examination in physical therapy is an essential part of the diagnostic process. This examination involves a series of tests and observations that allow the physiotherapist to assess the function and structure of the patient's body. The physical examination may include the assessment of posture, muscle function, joint mobility, sensitivity, coordination, balance, among other aspects. The information obtained from this exam is essential for understanding the patient's health condition and planning treatment.

The first step in the physical therapy diagnosis and examination process is collecting information about the patient. This step involves a detailed interview with the patient, during which the physical therapist asks questions about the patient's medical history, current symptoms, daily activities, quality of life, and other relevant factors. This information is crucial to understanding the patient's health situation and identifying possible causes of symptoms.

After collecting information, the physiotherapist performs the physical examination. This exam is personalized for each patient, based on the information collected during the interview and the symptoms presented by the patient. The physical examination may include observation of the patient's posture, assessment of muscle strength, assessment of joint mobility, assessment of sensitivity, assessment of coordination and balance, among other tests. The purpose of this examination is to identify any abnormalities or dysfunctions that may be contributing to the patient's symptoms.

Based on the information collected during the interview and physical examination, the physical therapist makes a diagnosis. This diagnosis is a clinical description of the patient's health condition, which serves as a basis for treatment planning. Physiotherapy diagnosis is a complex process that requires clinical reasoning skills, clinical knowledge and communication skills.

In conclusion, diagnosis and physical examination in physiotherapy are essential processes in clinical practice. These procedures allow physiotherapists to identify different conditions and pathologies, determine the patient's health status and plan appropriate treatment. Through this chapter, we hope that you have gained a basic understanding of these important concepts and are prepared to apply them in clinical practice.

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