Physical Therapists - Physical Therapists (PT’s) are health care professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages from newborns to the very oldest, who have medical problems or other health related conditions that limit their ability to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives.
PT’s examine each individual and develop a plan using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain and restore function, and prevent disability. (www.apta.org)
Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist - A Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) is certified through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Candidates sit a rigorous test in all areas of orthopedic practice and must pass all sections to become certified.
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist - A certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) is an individual who possess the knowledge and skills needed to design and implement safe and effective strength and conditioning programs for athletes in a team setting. (www.nsca-cc.org). CSCS individuals have at least a bachelor’s degree and have passed the national certification examination through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. They must complete continuing education to maintain this certification.
Manual Therapy Certification: Certified manual therapy is a certification given by the University of St. Augustine (www.usa.edu). It includes taking extensive seminars ranging from 2-6 days covering basic science and knowledge in the areas of spinal, extremity and myofacial manipulation. To become certified you must pass oral, written and practical exams in the above mentioned areas.
Functional Capacity Testing: A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a comprehensive battery of performance based tests that is used commonly to determine ability for work, activities of daily living, or leisure activities. The Functional Capacity Evaluation today quantifies safe functional abilities, and is a pivotal resource for: return-to-work and job-placement decisions, disability evaluation, determination of how non-work related illness and injuries impact work performance, determination of function in non-occupational setting, intervention and treatment planning, and case management and case closure. For more information read about FCE at www.apta.org.
