Explore the curriculum within a physical therapy program.
A Doctor of Physical Therapy degree program teaches students to diagnose and treat patients who are living with health-related conditions that are affecting their ability to perform normal physical activities. Physical therapists implement treatment plans and techniques to help patients restore their ability to move, prevent disability and reduce pain. Conditions in the body may develop because of injuries, surgery or cognitive disorders. The Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education should accredit any prospective Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
Kinesiology
Kinesiology combines the principles of science and biomechanics to study the human body and movement. Students learn about functional and dysfunctional movements during the human life span. The course takes both a theoretical and clinical approach to motion analysis. Topics cover human posture, jumping, throwing and lifting.
Neuroscience
The neuroscience course offers students an overview to neuroanatomy, neurological function and neurophysiology. Students study the normal structures in the nervous system and learn to recognize abnormalities. A focus is also placed on the manifestations of neurological disorders.
Exercise Physiology
Students in an exercise physiology course learn about the physiological responses to resistance and endurance exercises. An opportunity is available to develop a comprehensive understanding of the neuromuscular, pulmonary, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and renal systems. Students learn about prescribing and treating patients using exercising philosophies to healthy and injured clinical populations.
Motor Control
A course in motor control teaches students about the behavioral, physical and neural processes that control the human body. An emphasis is placed on learning and re-learning these processes following a trauma. Students are able to learn through theory, case studies and demonstrations.
Pharmacology in Physical Therapy
Students in the pharmacology in physical therapy courses learn how medications and pharmaceutical drugs can be used as part of a physical therapy or rehabilitation program. The course teaches students about how pharmaceuticals affect the physical process and interact with nutrition, metabolism and absorption. Students also must develop an understanding of the side effects associated with these drugs.
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