A Sequenced and Team Approach to Surface Anatomy Education in Physical Therapy in Preparation for Clinical Practice and Collaborative Care

Abstract

A deep understanding of anatomy is foundational in the clinical practice of physical therapy, and is key to discovery and scholarly work in movement sciences. Similar to several other health science professions, education of the physical therapist begins with prerequisite coursework in an undergraduate program, continues with doctoral‐level courses in a graduate program, and often post‐licensure residency or fellowship training. Anatomy and physiology are prerequisites for many DPT programs, and anatomy is included in the required elements for accreditation of DPT programs, residencies and fellowships. Surface anatomy is foundational for clinical work in physical therapy and is honed over years of practice.In the DPT curriculum, surface anatomy is incorporated into early courses in gross anatomy and skills acquisition, including training in goniometry and assessment of muscle strength and vital signs. Surface anatomy continues into advanced gross anatomy courses and education in physical examination, neuromusculoskeletal assessment, and movement science. Early on, students identify bony landmarks, arterial pulses and muscle bulk, similar to early learners in medical curricula. As they progress, DPT students learn to observe subtle contours and shadows, identify muscle weaknesses and joint restrictions through observation of movement, assess muscle contraction and tendon motion using ultrasound imaging, and palpate delicate superficial nerves, millimeter differences in joint motion, and directional restrictions in layers of fascia.Licensed physical therapists gain additional knowledge of anatomy through continuing education courses, residency and fellowship training. Courses may include advanced training in such areas as pelvic health, oncological care, prosthetics, or vestibular rehabilitation. Residencies and fellowships enable clinical specialization, such as in pediatrics, orthopedics or cardiopulmonary care. Each of these courses and specialty certifications includes advanced training in surface observation of underlying anatomy.In this talk, Dr. Topp will describe a sequenced approach to surface anatomy education in physical therapy, and how surface anatomy is used in clinical physical therapy. As budding experts in anatomy, students in physical therapy may provide guidance in surface anatomy for physicians in training, and the talk will include examples of near‐peer learning of surface anatomy and case‐based musculoskeletal examinations.Support or Funding InformationNo funding was required.