Physical Therapy Courses: Fall 2023



Physical Therapy

PT 101: Freshman Seminar in Physical Therapy

1 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the first in the sequence of two courses designed to introduce students to the physical therapy profession and to the professional phase of the physical therapy curriculum. Students will be introduced to the history of the physical therapy profession, scope of practice, professional organizations, roles of other health care professionals, and the importance of scientific research and its link to the concept of evidence-based practice. Concepts related to managed care and the changing healthcare environment will be explored as they relate to the health care professional and consumer. Additionally, issues of contemporary practice will be discussed and debated. Prerequisites: PT Freshmen status or permission of PT Department. (UG)


PT 201: Sophomore Seminar in Physical Therapy

1 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the second in a sequence of two courses designed to introduce students to the professional phase of the physical therapy curriculum and the profession. Topics will include principles of therapeutic communication, ethics and core values, sociocultural issues and cultural fluency in health care delivery, issues in professional continuing education in a dynamic profession, computer literacy in physical therapy, and an introduction to medical terminology and documentation formats in physical therapy. PT 101 or permission of PT Department. (UG)


PT 312: Principles of Teaching and Learning

3 Credit Hour(s)

Fulfills core competency: Information Literacy. Together with CMP 315, Advanced Composition for Health Professionals, combination of both courses meets Research & Presentation requirement. This course will focus on the principles of teaching and learning relevant to the role of the physical therapist as an educator addressing the changing needs of the learner across the lifespan. We will begin with an exploration of the role of education in health care including its historical evolution, and associated ethical, legal, and economic issues. Topics will include theoretical models of adult learning styles, adult learning theories, cognitive development, and taxonomies of educational objectives. Principles of teaching and learning will be applied in the affective, cognitive, and psychomotor domains. As the course progresses, we will explore characteristics of the learner including assessment of the learner's needs across the lifespan, and contextual factors that influence the process of learning including adherence, empowerment, and motivation. Cross-cultural issues broadly defined that affect the teaching and learning process will be discussed including access to healthcare, age, culture, disability, family, gender, poverty, religion, and socio-economic status. Throughout this, course students will formally and informally present content to their peers affording the opportunity for application of course content, practice, and feedback. The final course presentation is evidence-based and draws on work completed in CMP 315 and fulfills the presentation component of the core requirement for Research and Presentation within the Physical Therapy curriculum. Together with CMP 315, fulfills the Research and Presentation requirement. (UG)


PT 501: Applied Biostatistics

3 Credit Hour(s)

Students will develop an understanding of the principles and applications of parametric and nonparametric statistics, particularly with respect to applications in physical therapy. Topics will include: probability, scales of measurement, reliability and validity, sampling techniques, experimental design and hypothesis development (statistical inference), descriptive statistics, parametric and nonparametric tests of significance, correlation, and regression. Selection of appropriate statistical procedures will be presented with reference to principles of experimental design presented in PT 553 Introduction to Clinical Research Design. Students will use both calculators and computer software (SPSS, Excel) for analyzing data and developing graphic representations. Prerequisites: PT Second Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 504: Clinical Functional Anatomy I

3 Credit Hour(s)

This course will build upon the fundamental embryology, histology, and gross anatomical structure acquired in General Anatomy (BIO 330/L). This course, the first of two clinically-oriented functional anatomy courses, will focus on the detailed structure and function of the human neuromusculoskeletal system. It will concentrate on the relationships of normal and abnormal embryological and developmental processes to gross anatomical structure, and the relationships of normal and abnormal anatomical structure to movement and function across the lifespan. Specific anatomical content will be presented on a regional basis and will include the back, head, neck, shoulder girdle, upper extremity, and thorax. Various teaching/learning methods will be used including lecture utilizing 3D anatomical software, laboratory, and demonstrations. Laboratory sessions will allow students to acquire a three-dimensional macroscopic appreciation of anatomical structure through human cadaver dissection guided by instructor's online video demonstrations, cadaver prosections, and study of models. Prerequisite: PT First Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 504L: Clinical Functional Anatomy I Lab

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Clinical Functional Anatomy. Required corequisite: PT 504. (GR)


PT 505: Clinical Functional Anatomy II Lecture

2 Credit Hour(s)

This course will build upon the fundamental content acquired in General Anatomy (BIO 330) and Clinical Functional Anatomy I (PT504). This course is the second of two clinically oriented functional anatomy courses that will focus on the detailed structure and function of the human neuromusculoskeletal system, specifically the lower extremity and cavities. Lecture is one hour per week and lab sessions are two hours per week. Various teaching/learning methods will be used including lecture utilizing 3D anatomical software, laboratory, and demonstrations. Laboratory sessions will allow students to acquire a three-dimensional macroscopic appreciation of anatomical structure through human cadaver dissection guided by iPad video demonstrations, cadaver prosections, and study of models. Prerequisites: PT 504 and PT First Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 505L: Clinical Functional Anatomy II Laboratory

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Clinical Functional Anatomy II. Corequisite: PT 505. (GR)


PT 506: Kinesiology and Biomechanics I

3 Credit Hour(s)

This lecture/laboratory course will introduce and emphasize the principles of kinesiology, tissue mechanics and biomechanics of the cervical, temporomandibular, thoracic, and upper extremity joints and their related soft tissues. The clinical application of these principles will be reinforced through both static and dynamic analyses of regional human movement and posture. Kinetic and kinematic analysis of movement of these regions will be explored using such tools as dynamometry and video motion analysis. This course content will be synthesized with the foundations of anatomical structure and physiology presented in PT 504/L; Clinical Functional Anatomy I and PT 508/L; Physiology of Exercise. This integration of anatomical and physiological foundations will aid the learner in proper examination and evaluation of the quality, efficiency, and safety of upper quarter movement patterns and functional task performance. An emphasis will be placed on the analysis and discussion of the mechanical properties of tissues and their respective responses to stress shielding and stress application. Lectures will provide an in-depth study of the biomechanics of the cervical and thoracic spines, temporomandibular joint and upper extemities. The students will analyze forces affecting arthrokinematics and osteokinematics of these respective regions and relate those to whole body and regional mobility and stability by way of clinical application. Laboratories will promote development of skills in critical analysis and examination and evaluation of typical and atypical movement. The student will then develop skill in the application of both kinetic and kinematic biomechanical analysis and begin to foster consideration of biomechanical principles in the design of reliable and valid upper quarter examination procedures and efficacious intervention strategies and parameters. Prerequisite: PT First Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 506L: Kinesiology and Biomechanics I Lab

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Kinesiology & Biomechanics I. Required corequisite: PT 506. (GR)


PT 507: Kinesiology & Biomechanics II Lecture

2 Credit Hour(s)

This lecture/laboratory course will focus on the principles of kinesiology, tissue mechanics and biomechanics as they relate to the lower extremity, pelvis, and lumbar spine. The clinical application of these principles will be reinforced through both static and dynamic analyses of regional human movement and posture. Kinetic and kinematic analysis of movement of these regions will be explored using video and observational motion analyses. This course content will be synthesized with the foundations of anatomical structure, physiology and kinesiology presented in PT 504 & 505; Clinical Functional Anatomy I & II and PT 508; Physiology of Exercise; and PT 506 Kinesiology and Biomechanics I. This integration of anatomical, physiological, and kinesiological foundations will aid the learner in proper evaluation of the quality, efficiency, and safety of lower quarter movement patterns and functional task performance such as in-depth gait analysis. Lectures will provide an in-depth study of the biomechanics of the lumbar spine, pelvis, and lower extremities. The students will analyze forces affecting arthrokinematics and osteokinematics of these respective regions and relate those to whole body and regional mobility and stability by way of clinical application. Laboratories will promote further development of skills in critical analysis and evaluation of typical and atypical movement, the application of both kinetic and kinematic biomechanical analysis and begin to foster consideration of biomechanical principles in the design of reliable and valid lower quarter examination procedures and efficacious intervention strategies and parameters. Prerequisite: PT First Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 507L: Kinesiology and Biomechanics II Laboratory

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Kinesiology & Biomechanics II. Corequisite: PT 507. (GR)


PT 508: Physiology of Exercise

3 Credit Hour(s)

This foundational science course introduces and emphasizes the concepts and knowledge of the body's physiological response to exercise, overuse, and disuse. Lectures and laboratory experiences focus on the structural and physiological effects of exercise and establish a knowledge base for the future clinician to develop and critically assess neuromusculoskeletal exercise prescription and cardiopulmonary intervention programs. Prerequisite: PT First Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 508L: Physiology of Exercise Lab

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Physiology of Exercise. Corequisite: PT 508. (GR)


PT 509: Principles and Applications of Physical Agents Lecture

4 Credit Hour(s)

This lecture/laboratory course will introduce and emphasize the physiologic effects of electromagnetic and acoustic energy on human tissue. The clinical application of these principles will be reinforced through laboratory practical experiences as well as clinical case studies. This course content will be synthesized with the foundations of anatomical structure and physiology presented in PT 504/L Clinical Functional Anatomy I, PT 505/L Clinical Functional Anatomy II, PT 514/L Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation I, and PT 515/L Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation II. This integration of anatomic and physiological foundations will aid the learner in decision making with regard to application of appropriate physical agents. An emphasis will be placed on therapeutic modalities. Lectures will provide an in-depth study of the science of pain neurophysiology and management, therapeutic modalities and interventions. Students will differentiate between the thermal, acoustic, mechanical, and electrical modalities commonly utilized in the clinic. Laboratories will promote development of psychomotor skills and demonstrate mastery in the safe application of therapeutic modalities. Students will develop consideration of the application of physical agents within treatment strategies that are based upon evidence in practice. Prerequisite: PT First Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 509L: Principles and Applications of Physical Agents Laboratory

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Principles and Applications of Physical Agents. Corequisite: PT 509. (GR)


PT 514: Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation I

5 Credit Hour(s)

This lecture/laboratory course is the first in a three part series, which will introduce the concepts of musculoskeletal examination, evaluation, and intervention strategies of the cervical spine, thoracic spine, upper extremities, and associated structures. This course will further promote development of knowledge in differentiating musculoskeletal dysfunctions/disorders in the regions noted. Students will further develop and synthesize the concepts of decision making and critical thinking in evidence-based practice and professionalism with topics including communication, ethical behavior, professional organization, collaborative/team practice and scope of practice. Additionally, the use of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) will be used to describe a patient/client's impairments, activity and participation limitations. Treatment concepts and techniques will be presented and applied in a conceptual framework emphasizing functional restoration. Laboratories will promote development of skill in the application of examination and intervention techniques discussed in lecture. Techniques will be discussed and practiced in the context of clinical problems. Students will have the opportunity to critically evaluate examination findings via paper cases to build differential diagnosis and problem solving skills. Prerequisite: PT First Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 514L: Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation I Lab

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation I. Corequisite: PT 514. (GR)


PT 515: Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation II Lecture

5 Credit Hour(s)

This lecture/laboratory course is the second in a three part series, which will further investigate concepts of musculoskeletal examination and evaluation and will promote development of knowledge in differentiating musculoskeletal dysfunctions/disorders of the ankle/foot, knee, hip, lumbar spine, pelvis, and their associated structures. Treatment philosophies and techniques (e.g. structure mobilization and stabilization) will be explored and applied in a conceptual framework emphasizing functional restoration. Additionally, the use of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) will be used to describe a patient/client's impairments, activity limitations and participation restrictions. Basic care procedures will be presented including wheelchair parts and propulsion, transfer training, gait training, and environmental assessment and modification. In addition, a specialty area of aquatic therapy will be explored. Laboratories will promote development of skill in the application of examination and intervention techniques discussed in lecture. Techniques will be presented and practiced in the context of clinical problems. Students will have the opportunity to critically evaluate examination findings via paper cases to build differential diagnosing and problem solving skills. Students will participate in clinical observations and patient demonstrations in Clinical Exposure to continue their hands-on experience with patients and to further develop patient-therapist and professional communication skills. Prerequisite: PT First Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 515L: Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation II Laboratory

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation II. Corequisite: PT 515. (GR)


PT 516: Clinical Problem Solving in Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation

2 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the third course in a three part series which will provide students an opportunity to further explore topics in musculoskeletal rehabilitation through a problem based learning format. This course will have distinct but related units to promote and enhance further proficiency in musculoskeletal rehabilitation patient/client management. The student will have an opportunity to engage in both the cognitive and psychomotor domains of learning for thrust and non-thrust manipulation of the spine and extremities. Discussion of manipulation theory and current best evidence will be explored. Laboratory will be utilized to present, practice, and refine technique in spinal and extremity thrust and non-thrust manipulation using a case based model approach. Paper cases will be analyzed to further enhance differential diagnosis skills. Examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention strategies will be explored using current best evidence. Students will present a patient case from their summer clinical internship (PT 577) to allow the student learner further opportunity to critically think and problem solve as it relates to a patient with musculoskeletal pathology. Ideally, the patient selection would allow for further inquiry into examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention. To allow for maturation in critical thinking, the selection might include a challenging patient to examine, evaluate and treat with questionable positive outcomes. Students will be given carefully constructed musculoskeletal case studies not presented in Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation I or II (PT 514/PT 515). Through these case studies, students will focus on knowledge and skills associated with examination and intervention in a higher order thinking manner. These cases will also highlight social/cultural/psychosocial issues, legal and ethical aspects of professional behavior, and integration of published literature into clinical practice. Prerequisite: PT Second Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 517: Clinical Medicine I

1-3 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the first in a three-part clinical medicine series. It is designed to challenge the student to evaluate the knowledge of basic clinical presentations associated with musculoskeletal pathology as a foundation for direct patient care and research. Key topics characteristic of common orthopedic pathologies will be addressed, including etiology; epidemiology; underlying pathophysiology; clinical signs and symptoms related to impairments of body structure, activity limitations, and participation restrictions; natural history and prognosis; diagnostic medical procedures; differential diagnosis; medical, pharmacologic and surgical management; and expected outcomes. Differential diagnosis related to musculoskeletal pathology will be emphasized. Content presented will encompass pathologies observed across the lifespan. Prerequisite: PT First Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 521: Prosthetics and Orthotics

2 Credit Hour(s)

This lecture and laboratory based course is designed to increase the student's understanding of prosthetics and orthotics and the ability of the student to integrate use of these devices appropriately into clinical practice. Principles of prosthetic and orthotic design, function, and fabrication will be discussed. Clinical problem solving for prosthetic and orthotic prescription will be addressed based on examination findings and best evidence in order to optimize function for the patient/client. Pre-prosthetic as well as prosthetic training will be emphasized. Use of orthoses in management of individuals receiving physical therapy will be integrated with knowledge from previous courses in the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular areas of rehabilitation. Prerequisite: PT Second Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 521L: Prosthetics and Orthotics Lab

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Prosthetics and Orthotics. Corequisite: PT 521. (GR)


PT 530: Psychosocial Aspects of Health and Disability

3 Credit Hour(s)

This course applies biopsychosocial models of health, illness, and disability, including psychosocial aspects of disability; social attitudes and perceptions; adjustment to and secondary effects of disability. This course will develop student competence in responding to individuals who are experiencing physical and psychiatric problems. This course is designed for Physical Therapy students to be taken in the professional phase of the curriculum. Students will have had exposure to patients with musculoskeletal and neurological disorders and will therefore be able to consider the issues addressed in the course in the context of specific illnesses and/or disabilities relating to these body systems. Through readings, guest speakers, video, and community experiences, and in class discussions, this course is intended to challenge your paradigm of how you have perceived both physical and psychiatric disability. Discussions on quality of life, self-help, and recovery are intended to help you develop and sustain your professional relationships with the individuals with whom you may assist in their recovery. As this course is intended to help you understand and respond with comfort to individuals who are experiencing physical and mental health problems, you will have the opportunity to discuss various psychosocial issues that you have experienced personally, in your clinical exposure courses, internships and/or other settings, and using case studies towards a better understanding of how you might more effectively communicate and manage various challenges in the clinical setting. Prerequisites: PSY 103; PT Second Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 532: Motor Control and Motor Learning

2 Credit Hour(s)

This course explores conceptual issues in motor control and motor learning that form an important theoretical foundation for the practice of evidence-based physical therapy. Students will examine historical and contemporary theories of motor control, postural control, information processing and motor learning, as frameworks for understanding goal-directed, functional movement. The interconnection of information processing, attention, memory and motor learning in the development and application of motor control and postural control will be emphasized. We will also explore theories of motor control, motor learning and postural control as explanatory models for changes in movement capabilities across the lifespan. Potential constraints to these processes will be explored through examination of functional changes associated with movement system dysfunction. Prerequisites: PT Second Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 539: Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

3 Credit Hour(s)

This lecture and laboratory course will address the diversified issues of clinical management of patient/client with primary and/or secondary cardiovascular and pulmonary dysfunction within the context of Physical Therapy. Topics will include practice setting specific management principles and therapeutic techniques to address primary and secondary impairments of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, as well as prevention of dysfunction in individuals across their lifespan. Topics to be discussed include Chronic Obstructive Lung Dysfunction, Restrictive Lung Dysfunction, Heart Failure, Cardiac Muscle Dysfunction, the post-surgical patient, the patient post-trauma, the patient who survives critical illness, and the patient with cancer. Prerequisites: Enrollment in the 3rd year of DPT program or by permission of the instructor. (GR)


PT 539L: Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Lab

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation. Corequisite: PT 539. (GR)


PT 541: Neurobiology I

4 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the first of a two-semester course in neurobiology. It is designed to introduce students to broad neural principles and to the general organization of central and peripheral nervous system. We will integrate experimentally- and clinically-derived knowledge (via case applications), as well as insights and techniques from the many disciplines and levels of analysis that converge to explain the current anatomy and function of the human nervous system. Emphasis in this course is placed on the properties of neurons and principles of neurobiology covered in topics including: neurodevelopment, communication within and between neurons, formation of neural circuits, neural plasticity, and neural regeneration. Laboratories will promote development of skills in neuroanatomical identification and basic principles of neural circuits and brain anatomy. This will provide an essential and foundational knowledge base for the integration of neural information with neurologic diagnosis following injury to the nervous system. Gross anatomy, myelin-stained cross sections, microscopic anatomy, and neurodiagnostic images (MRI, CT scan, vasculature studies) of the brain and spinal cord will be studied during laboratory sessions. Together, the lecture and laboratories will lay the foundation for studying the association of anatomy and function with regard to clinical outcomes and effects of damage to the central and peripheral nervous systems. Prerequisites: PT First Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 541L: Neurobiology I Lab

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Neurobiology I. Corequisite: BIO 541. (GR)


PT 542: Neurobiology II

4 Credit Hour(s)

This is the second semester of a two-semester course in neurobiology through which you will develop a detailed knowledge of functional neuroanatomy of the central nervous system. General topics we will cover include: sensory systems; reflexive, voluntary, and modulated movement and postural control; spinal and cranial nerve anatomy and clinical examination; association cortex and its relationship to cognitive ability, emotion and memory; and the association between plasticity and recovery of function. We will integrate clinical knowledge and insights and techniques from the many scientific disciplines that converge to explain the current anatomy and function of the human nervous system as well as their contributions to applied practice. We will consider neurodegenerative disease and trauma and put into functional context several commonly used medications utilized for the management of several neurologic impairments. Gross and microscopic anatomy, myelin-stained sections, and neurodiagnostic images of damaged brain and spinal cord sections will be studied in clinical and anatomical context during laboratory sessions. Case studies will be used extensively in the laboratory sessions to develop analytical skills, to develop an essential knowledge base for neurologic diagnosis, and to promote continued development of skills in neuroanatomical identification. Prerequisite: PT Second Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 542L: Neurobiology II Lab

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Neurobiology II. (GR)


PT 544: Neuromuscular Rehabilitation I Lecture

5 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the first in a three part series which will apply the conceptual framework of physical therapy management to patients/clients with neuromuscular rehabilitative needs. Operational theories of nervous system organization including systems theories, models of central nervous system reorganization, and recovery models will be reinforced and emphasized. Enablement model, the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, guidelines for content in physical therapy education, and other conceptual frameworks that aid the physical therapist in evidence-based clinical decision making and reasoning will be explored. This course will begin with an in-depth study of human development from the life span perspective, with an emphasis on development of human movement, postural control and their interrelationship to skill acquisition. Neuromuscular based pediatric movement disorders will be introduced and emphasized within the context of the elements of physical therapy practice and patient/client management. Developmental anatomy and biomechanics, functional neuro-anatomy, and physiology will be linked to discussions of disorders of posture and movement. Contemporary theories of intervention including therapeutic handling will be presented. Medical management options including pharmacology and surgery will be discussed. Course content will include applications of assistive technology including adaptive and therapeutic equipment as it relates to the pediatric patient client population. Course content will reinforce the development of professional and ethical behaviors, the scope of physical therapy practice, collaborative practice models, therapeutic communication skills, and documentation. Laboratory sessions will promote the development of skill in the application of examination and intervention techniques discussed in lecture. Prerequisite: PT Second Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 544L: Neuromuscular Rehabilitation I Laboratory

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Neuromuscular Rehabilitation I. Corequisite: PT 544. (GR)


PT 545: Neuromuscular Rehabilitation II

5 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the second in a three part series which will apply the conceptual framework of physical therapy management to patients/clients with neuromuscular rehabilitative needs. This course will use the conceptual models/frameworks and reinforce foundational principles and theories presented in PT 544/L. This course will continue the study of human development, from the life span perspective, with an emphasis on age related changes of postural control and movement and their interrelationship to functional capabilities. Adult onset neuromuscular-based movement disorders will be introduced and emphasized within the context of the elements of physical therapy practice and patient/client management. Anatomy, functional neuroanatomy, and physiology will be linked to discussions of disorders of posture and movement. A variety of theoretical approaches across examination and intervention will be presented. Medical management options including pharmacology and surgery will be discussed. Course content will include issues on aging, vestibular rehabilitation, and an expanded discussion of assistive technology including adaptive and therapeutic equipment as it relates to the adult patient/client population. Course content will reinforce the development of professional and ethical behaviors, the scope of physical therapy practice, collaborative practice models, therapeutic communication skills, and documentation. Laboratory sessions will promote development of skill in the application of examination and intervention techniques discussed in lecture. Prerequisites: PT Second Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 545L: Neuromuscular Rehabilitation II Lab

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Neuromuscular Rehabilitation II. Corequisite: PT 545. (GR)


PT 546: Clinical Medicine II

3 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the second in a three part clinical medicine series. It is designed to challenge the student to evaluate the knowledge of clinical presentations associated with the neuromuscular system as a foundation for direct patient/client care and research. Key topics characteristic of common neuromuscular pathologies will be addressed, including etiology; epidemiology; underlying pathophysiology and histology; clinical signs and symptoms related impairments, activity and participation limitations; natural history and prognosis; diagnostic medical procedures; differential diagnosis; medical, pharmacological and surgical management; and expected outcomes. Differential diagnosis related to neuromuscular pathology will be emphasized and applied to determine appropriateness of physical therapy intervention. Content presented will encompass pathologies observed across the lifespan. Prerequisites: PT Second Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 548: Integumentary Care

3 Credit Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the skin and its appendages as they relate to wound etiology, evaluation, treatment, and prevention. The student will explore the anatomical and physiological processes associated with tissue destruction, repair, and remodeling as they relate to specific cause and effect using the wound healing model as the principle pillar of exploration. This course will address the diversified issues of clinical management of the individual with a primary and/or secondary integumentary disorder as they relate to the practice of physical therapy. Topics will include practice setting specific management principles and techniques as they relate to individuals across their lifespan, with disorders of the integumentary system including, but not limited to: burns, pressure ulcers, arterial and venous stasis disorders, neuropathic lesions, dermatitis, and cellulitis. The student will acquire skills within a theoretical and practical spectrum as it relates to clinical management, environmental constraints, and critical pathways. Prerequisite: PT Third Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 549: Clinical Medicine III

2 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the final in the three part clinical medicine series. It is designed to challenge the student to evaluate the knowledge of clinical presentations associated with cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, as well as general medicine topics including gastrointestinal, urogenital, metabolic, and oncologic pathologies, as a foundation for direct patient care and research. Key topics characteristic of the pathologies will be addressed, including etiology; epidemiology; underlying pathophysiology and histology; clinical signs and symptoms related to impairments, activity and participation limitations, natural history and prognosis; diagnostic medical procedures; differential diagnosis; medical, pharmacological and surgical management; and expected outcomes. Differential diagnosis related to these pathologies will be emphasized and applied to determine appropriateness of physical therapy intervention. Content presented will encompass pathologies observed across the life span. Prerequisite: PT Third Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 551: Integrative Seminar in Physical Therapy

0 Credit Hour(s)

PT 551 (I-IV) and PT 651 (V) Integrative Seminars focus on the integration of all corresponding courses within each semester of the curriculum. These sessions will act as forums within which the student learner will have the opportunity to conceptualize each aspect of rehabilitation and build them into an overall framework of patient/client care. Each session will generally have a theme of interest such that students can build upon their level of understanding of that material as well as experience, appreciate and value the complexity of the entire process. These forums are designed to act as learning communities to promote independent critical thinking and independent thought while assisting in preparing each student for all lecture, laboratory and clinical exposure components of the semester coursework. Prerequisite: PT professional status (corresponding Fall/Spring semesters) in First through Third years. (GR)


PT 553: Introduction to Clinical Research Design

1 Credit Hour(s)

In this one-credit course students will explore the role of clinical research in supporting clinical decision-making and evidence-based practice. Students will explore the continuum of research methodologies and designs commonly used in clinical research (i.e. descriptive to randomized controlled trials); and they will evaluate the merit and relevance of published research to the practice of physical therapy. Ethical issues in clinical research will be considered including the role of institutional review boards and the requirements of informed consent. Students will lead discussions of research papers, considering key concepts such as sampling, experimental controls, levels of measurement, sensitivity, specificity, reliability and validity. As the semester progresses, groups of students will write a research question (or questions) that they will form from a topic of their interest. They will search the published literature, create a literature table, and present their findings to their research question. The culmination of the student's research will be a platform presentation. Prerequisites: PT Second Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 554: Clinical Research I

2 Credit Hour(s)

This course continues the work begun in PT 553 to develop the skills necessary to contribute to clinical research related to physical therapy. While working in small groups, students in this course will continue to build on the area of inquiry established in PT 553 which included articulation of a research question and a preliminary evidence-based literature review. This semester each group of students will work as participants in the faculty mentor's research. Groups will meet regularly throughout the semester with the faculty mentor for discussion of key issues related to the research process including analysis and synthesis of the research literature, experimental design, methodology, data analysis, etc. Each group will construct a research proposal that meets all the criteria for submission to the Daemen University Institutional Review Board - Human Subjects Research (IRB). A written comprehensive evidence-based literature review table, references and introduction section of the final manuscript will be submitted by each group reflecting the semester's work. Students are also expected to participate collaboratively in data collection and analysis across the Spring/Fall PT 554/PT555 course sequence. Prerequisites: PT Second Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 555: Clinical Research II

2 Credit Hour(s)

During this semester the student will execute the research investigation designed in PT 554. It is expected that the student in conjunction with the research mentor and peers will have completed a research proposal and will have submitted that proposal to the Daemen University Institutional Review Board - Human Subjects Research (IRB). Following approval by the IRB as appropriate and working closely with the research mentor, the students will collect and analyze data. Students will collaborate with one another on activities across the course. The culmination of the course will be a written research manuscript and a platform presentation at the annual Evidence-Based Practice Clinical Research Symposium open to the Daemen University community, as well as interested individuals from the broader professional community. Prerequisites: PT Third Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 563: Clinical Exposure I (Musculoskeletal I)

1 Credit Hour(s)

The clinical exposure component of the curriculum consists of five semesters of every other week clinic-based experiential learning sessions. This course is the first in the series across each of the professional phase academic semesters. These sessions are mentored by clinical associated faculty in collaboration with core faculty concurrently teaching the specialty content in the campus-based didactic coursework. These brief, regular exposures to clinical practice allow the student to observe and engage in the practice of physical therapy, further developing cognitive, affective, and psychomotor skills acquired in lecture and laboratory experiences. Small student teams will visit a local clinical facility that provides care to a variety of patient profiles within musculoskeletal rehabilitation. This experience is designed to permit the student to become acclimated to the clinical environment and develop effective patient-therapist communication skills. Students will synthesize knowledge already gained in classroom coursework with practical experience. Prerequisite: PT First Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 564: Clinical Exposure II (Musculoskeletal II)

1 Credit Hour(s)

The clinical exposure component of the curriculum consists of five semesters of every other week clinic-based experiential learning sessions. This course is the second in the series across each of the professional phase academic semesters. These sessions are mentored by clinical associated faculty in collaboration with core faculty concurrently teaching the specialty content in the campus-based didactic coursework. These brief, regular exposures to clinical practice allow the student to observe and engage in the practice of physical therapy, further developing cognitive, affective, and psychomotor skills acquired in lecture and laboratory experiences. Small student teams will visit a local clinical facility that provides care to a variety of patient profiles within musculoskeletal rehabilitation. This experience is designed to permit the student to become acclimated to the clinical environment and develop effective patient-therapist communication skills. Students will synthesize knowledge already gained in classroom coursework with practical experience. Prerequisite: PT First Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 565: Clinical Exposure III (Neuromuscular I)

1 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the third in the series of five clinical exposures that are coordinated and mentored by academic faculty currently teaching in the specialty content in the campus-based didactic coursework, and adjunct faculty working in the specialty area. These brief, regular exposures to clinical practice will afford the student, while working in a small team (ranging from 2-5 students), the opportunity to observe and engage in the practice of pediatric physical therapy, further developing cognitive, affective and psychomotor skills acquired in lecture and laboratory experiences. This course is designed to offer the student two different types of learning opportunities. The first learning opportunity of this course consists of observations at identified local clinical facilities that provide care to children and adolescents with a variety of pediatric neuromuscular disorders. This observational experience is designed to afford the student the opportunity to become aware of a variety of pediatric practice settings and clinical diagnoses. The second learning opportunity of this course is designed to provide a patient care experience with an individual who is living with a pediatric onset, neuromuscular-based disorder of posture and movement. These experiences will occur in a small group in an on-campus clinic setting. These sessions are designed to afford the student the opportunity to begin to apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to clinical practice and to further develop effective patient-therapist communication skills with this specialized patient population. Students will synthesize knowledge already gained in classroom coursework with practical experience. Students will discuss and consider issues of individual differences in patient management, professional responsibilities, social/cultural diversity, and documentation of outcome measures, including examination findings, and ongoing intervention. Prerequisite: PT Second Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 566: Clinical Exposure IV (Neuromuscular II/ Prosthetics and Orthotics)

1 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the fourth in the series of five clinical exposures that are coordinated and mentored by academic and adjunct faculty currently teaching the specialty content in the campus-based didactic coursework. These brief, regular exposures to clinical practice will afford the student, while working in a small team (ranging from 2 to 5 students), the opportunity to observe and engage in the practice of adult neuromuscular rehabilitation and geriatric physical therapy and further develop cognitive, affective and psychomotor skills acquired in lecture and laboratory experiences. This course is designed to offer the student two different types of learning opportunities. The first learning opportunity consists of the student visiting, virtually and/or in person, local clinical facilities that provide care to adults with a variety of neuromuscular disorders and age-related disorders. This observational experience is designed to afford the student the opportunity to become aware of a variety of practice settings and clinical diagnoses. The second learning opportunity in this course will occur on the Daemen College campus and will provide the student the opportunity to gain direct 'hands-on' care experience with a patient. The clinical environment, which will be created on campus, will allow the student to further develop effective patient-therapist communication skills with this patient population. Students will synthesize knowledge already gained in classroom coursework with practical experience. Students will discuss and consider issues of individual differences in patient management, professional responsibility, social/cultural diversity, and documentation of outcome measures, including examination results and ongoing intervention. Prerequisite: PT Second Year Spring professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 567: Clinical Exposure V (Cardiopulmonary/ Integumentary)

1 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the last in the series of clinic-based experiential learning sessions that are coordinated and mentored by academic faculty. These regular exposures to clinical practice allow the student to further engage in the practice of physical therapy and other related fields, further developing cognitive, affective and psychomotor skills acquired in lecture and laboratory experiences. Students will be exposed to several different clinical environments including cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, integumentary wound care, trauma unit, wellness and health promotion, and holistic health. Students will discuss and consider issues of quality of care, scope of practice, clinical guidelines, documentation, and reimbursement. Prerequisite: PT Third Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 575: Pre-Clinical Seminar

1 Credit Hour(s)

This seminar format course is designed to prepare the student for his/her clinical internship experiences. Professional aspects of physical therapy will be stressed in this seminar. We will also incorporate design and implementation of the student's clinical education experiences at Daemen are also incorporated into this seminar course. The student will be introduced to essential information pertaining to clinical performance. The evaluation tool, the Clinical Performance Instrument, will be thoroughly examined. Emphasis will be placed on reinforcement of communication skills essential to professionals in the healthcare environment. Learning experiences will also focus on the following professional areas: professional and educational expectations; communication and professional behavior, ethical and legal standards; HIPAA regulations; cultural considerations in patient management; alternative models in clinical education; infection control and blood borne pathogens; universal precautions; OSHA regulations. Prerequisite: PT First Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 577: Clinical Internship I

3 Credit Hour(s)

This is a nine (9) week full-time clinical internship designed to develop skills deemed appropriate for entry-level physical therapy practice. Those skills include but are not limited to examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention. To accomplish this, students will participate in direct patient care that may include gait training, transfer training, assessment and measurement, intervention and patient education. Integration of the previous semester academic curriculum will be the focus of the clinical internship. The facilities utilized for the internship will focus on musculoskeletal or orthopedic patient care. Prerequisites: PT Second Year professional status and Grade of C or better in all PT coursework. (GR)


PT 582: Clinical Internship II

3 Credit Hour(s)

This is a nine (9) week full-time clinical internship designed to further enhance the student's patient/client management skills. The focus of this internship will be the management of patients/clients with neuromuscular disorders, incorporating information and skills acquired in the previous academic semesters. The facilities utilized for the internship will focus on neurorehabilitation of any age group. Prerequisites: PT Third Year professional status and Grade of C or better in all required PT course work. (GR)


PT 600: Clinical Problem Solving in Neuromuscular Rehabilitation

2 Credit Hour(s)

This course is the third in a three part series of neuromuscular coursework which will advance student proficiency in neuromuscular rehabilitation and promote the development of clinical reasoning, clinical problem-solving, and collaborative skills, as well as skills in self-assessment and independent learning. Throughout the course students will work independently or collaboratively in small groups with faculty mentors through a variety of directed learning experiences and patient/client case studies. The students will be required to interpret and analyze the information provided; gather additional information as necessary from reading and discussions of current scientific professional literature; and to synthesize and present coherent, evidence-based arguments addressing the specific goals of each learning experience or case study. The faculty mentors will facilitate student discussions and psychomotor activities. Objectives associated with each learning activity focus on knowledge and skills associated with all elements of physical therapy patient/client management, as well as, integration of published literature into clinical practice and contemporary practice issues including but not limited to social/cultural/psychosocial issues; legal and ethical aspects of professional behavior; discharge planning (including home/environmental needs, HEP); prognosis; practice issues (i.e. management of a collaborative care plan, supervision, constraints to practice); wellness and prevention; and accessing resources to facilitate patient care. Prerequisite: PT Third Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 606: Rehabilitation of the Patient With Spinal Cord Injury

1 Credit Hour(s)

This lecture/laboratory course will apply the conceptual framework of physical therapy management to patients/clients who have spinal cord injury during the acute, sub acute and long-term phases of care. Comprehensive exploration of the elements of physical therapy practice and patient/client management for patients/clients of all ages will be emphasized. Students are required to integrate and apply all previous academic/clinical knowledge with regard to musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary management, as well as application of environmental assessment/modification and assistive technology to enhance function, physical agents, and patient/caregiver education. Current scientific professional literature, integration of other systems, as well as critical thinking and decision making experiences for problem solving in all steps of patient/client management will be used. Prerequisite: PT Third Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 606L: Rehabilitation of the Patient With Spinal Cord Injury Lab

0 Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Rehabilitation of the Patient with Spinal Cord Injury. Corequisite: PT 606. (GR)


PT 610: Management and Administrative Issues in Physical Therapy

4 Credit Hour(s)

A broad survey of topics essential to the administration and management of physical therapy services. Topics covered will include: strategic planning, organizational structure, reimbursement and income management, budgeting, marketing, personnel management, leadership skills, quality assurance, ethical dilemmas and problem solving, professional regulation and the legislative process, various forms of liability and risk management, health care policy and systems of health care service delivery, contract issues and the negotiation process, documentation issues, and appropriate delegation, supervision and collaboration in the provision of physical therapy services. Prerequisite: PT Third Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 612: Health Promotion, Fitness and Wellness

2 Credit Hour(s)

This course will provide the student with the conceptual framework for individual and community health promotion, as well as injury/disease prevention across the lifespan. Course content includes examination of concepts of health, health promotion, wellness and prevention, and health related quality of life (HRQoL). Basic epidemiological principles will be discussed and applied to specific diseases related to the practice of physical therapy including examination of best evidence for screening and prevention. Current theories of health behavior change will be discussed, as well as issues of adherence and compliance, locus of control, motivation, and the influence of culture and context on health promotion. To demonstrate understanding and application of the key concepts of health behavior change, students will assess their own level of wellness, implement a personal plan to address a particular health behavior, and analyze the outcome of the intervention. Community based health promotion will also be addressed including needs assessment, planning, resources, and process and outcome assessment. Students will apply their knowledge by creating a community based health promotion or disease/injury prevention program and present their project to their peers. In addition, this course will address curricular content related to pelvic health across genders including examination through intervention considerations related to incontinence, pregnancy and related short term/long term sequelae, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Prerequisite: PT Third Year Fall professional status or permission of PT Department. (GR)


PT 651: Integrative Seminar in Physical Therapy V

0 Credit Hour(s)

PT 551 (I-IV) and PT 651 (V) Integrative Seminars focus on the integration of all corresponding courses within each semester of the curriculum. These sessions will act as forums within which the student learner will have the opportunity to conceptualize each aspect of rehabilitation and build them into an overall framework of patient/client care. Each session will generally have a theme of interest such that students can build upon their level of understanding of that material as well as experience, appreciate and value the complexity of the entire process. These forums are designed to act as learning communities to promote independent critical thinking and independent thought while assisting in preparing each student for all lecture, laboratory and clinical exposure components of the semester coursework. Prerequisite: PT professional status (corresponding Fall/Spring semesters) in First through Third years. (GR)


PT 680: Clinical Internship III

4 Credit Hour(s)

This is a nine (9) week full-time clinical internship designed to integrate all the academic knowledge gained as well as incorporate the previous clinical experiences to attain skills and behaviors of an entry-level physical therapist. The facilities utilized for the internship will focus on in-patient care of any age group and any setting. Prerequisites: PT Third Year professional status and Grade of C or better in all required PT course work. (GR)


PT 690: Clinical Internship IV

4 Credit Hour(s)

This is the final nine (9) week full-time clinical internship designed to enhance the student's entry- level skills in a special interest area of physical therapy. The facilities utilized for this internship will incorporate any setting appropriate for the delivery of physical therapy patient/client care. Prerequisites: PT Third Year professional status and Grade of C or better in all required PT course work. (GR)