Orthopedic Physical Therapy Secrets- Module 3: Electrotherapy and Modalities

Course Description:

This course is derived from the textbook by Jeffrey Placzek, MD, PT and David Boyce, PT, EdD, OCS.  This textbook is part of the popular Secrets series.  It presents physical therapy concepts and then introduces different healing modalities, specialties and orthopedic procedures typically prescribed for common injuries such as shoulders and extremities.  Common diseases are included as well as more innovative diagnostic tools for physical therapists such as radiology.  The text features concise information that includes tips, and memory “secrets”.  Bulleted lists, algorithms and illustrations provide a quick review of the specific topics discussed.  The information is interesting, entirely evidence-based, outcome based and up-to-date.  

Module 3: Electrotherapy and Modalities covers chapters 8 through 10.  

• Chapter 8: Cryotherapy and Moist Heat
• Chapter 9: Electrotherapy
• Chapter 10: Iontophoresis, Ultrasound, Phonophoresis, and Laser and Light Therapy 

Methods of Instruction:

Online course available via internet 

Target Audience:

Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapist Assistants and Athletic Trainers 

Educational Level:

Intermediate 

Prerequisites:

None 

Course Goals and Objectives:

At the completion of this course, participants should be able to:

1. Identify the effect of cryotherapy on Metabolic rate
2. Recognize the Hunting Response
3. Identify desired therapeutic tissue temperature
4. Identify Ohm's law and the relationship between current, voltage and resistance
5. Differentiate between factors that increase/decrease skin impedance
6. Define duty cycle
7. Identify electrically excitable/nonexcitable tissues
8. Recognize common indications for electrical stimulation
9. Differentiate between commonly used ionic solutions and their proposed indications
10. Recognize the indications/contraindications of electrotherapy and modalities 

Criteria for Obtaining Continuing Education Credits:

A score of 70% or greater on the post-test