To know the fundamentals, the physical principles of functioning, the rationale for use, the therapeutic indications and contraindications of the instrumental physical therapies commonly used in rehabilitation. To be able to choose and apply in clinical practice the knowledge acquired, also on the basis of current scientific evidence of efficacy.
Course Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of Anatomy and Physiology.
Teaching Methods
The course is based on lectures, carried out through PowerPoint presentations.
Assessment Methods
The exam consists of a written test, in which the skills acquired are assessed through open and multiple-choice questions. The evaluation of the test is carried out in thirtieths.
Texts
1. Alessandro Zati, Alessandro Valent. Terapia fisica. Nuove tecnologie in Medicina Riabilitativa. 2 Ed. 2017. Edizioni Minerva Medica. 2. Randall L. Braddom. Medicina Fisica & Riabilitazione. 2 Ed. 2005. Antonio Delfino Editor.
Contents
Definition of instrumental physical therapy and classification of the physical agents used in clinical practice Physiological basis of tissue excitability Motor unit and physiological basis of muscle contraction THERMAL ENERGY. Classification of thermotherapies (exogenous / endogenous), mode of transmission of thermal energy. Method of application, therapeutic indications and contraindications to the use of: exogenous thermotherapy, short wave diathermy, microwave diathermy, radar therapy, resistive-capacitive electric transfer therapy, infrared, cryotherapy. MECHANICAL ELASTIC VIBRATIONS. Physical principles, methods of application, therapeutic indications and contraindications to the use of ultrasound therapy (US). ELECTROTHERAPY. Biophysics of electrical currents. Method of application, therapeutic indications and contraindications, guidelines and scientific evidence for the use of: iontophoresis, analgesic electrotherapy and stimulation electrotherapy (NMES). LASER THERAPY. Physical principles, laser light generators, therapeutic indications and contraindications. MAGNETOTHERAPY. Method of application, therapeutic indications and contraindications, guidelines and scientific evidence for the use of magnetotherapy.
