Description
This course examines the physical therapist’s role as an interprofessional team member to determine the necessity and type of orthotics and prosthetics required to promote optimal movement for individuals with a variety of diagnoses including congenital and acquired limb differences and functional loss. The course is designed to promote an understanding of how to obtain, train in use of, and evaluate the effectiveness of orthotics and prosthetics. Students study the biomechanical principles of upper and lower extremity orthotic and prosthetic management and apply these principles to patient/client assessment and intervention. Students are expected to integrate their knowledge and skills from previous courses when engaging in the patient/client examination, evaluation, determining a physical therapy diagnosis, prognosis, plan of care, and intervention strategies consistent with evidence-based clinical decision making. Gait analysis is emphasized.