Simply watching your patients walk or run can help you identify gait abnormalities. But you could be missing something. Qualitative slow motion video analysis often allows you to see something missed when watching those same movements in real time. Today’s expert, Damien Howell, PT, DPT, OCS reveals the ways he uses slow motion video analysis at his practice to help clients improve their walking or running technique and enhance performance.
Howell uses video collected in his clinic or submitted by individuals online. He slows the video down to carefully analyze the video frame by frame. He then uses the video to evaluate client movement and determine the best treatment option for his clients. Video clips are then shared with clients so they can see how their movement abnormalities compare with proper movement technique. Listen now to learn how to use slow motion video analysis at your practice.
Most consumers rely on the expertise of a physical therapist to rehabilitate after an injury or surgery. But many have yet to discover physical therapists can help them avoid injury and unnecessary pain. Today’s expert, Desirea Caucci, PT, DPT, takes pain prevention to the next level with an innovative iPad app designed specifically for consumers and physical therapists. Dr. Caucci is the owner of Conshohocken Physical Therapy, Inc. She developed the Motion Doctor app along with Blue Whale Web Solutions, Inc. and shares details about this new physical therapy reference tool.
The Motion Doctor app is not intended to replace physical therapists. Instead, it’s a resource consumers can use to learn proper exercise technique to prevent potential problems before they start. With over 60 videos and exercises suited for specific body parts, sports and occupations, the Motion Doctor app also serves as a tool physical therapists can use to show patients how to complete exercises at home. The app also provides educational information about physical therapy and a “Find a PT” section that individuals can use to find a physical therapist in their area. Tune in now to learn more.
As outlined in previous postings, Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) aim to improve quality of care, lower costs and provide better outcomes. In a second podcast with PT Talker, Jason Richardson, PT, DPT, OCS, COMT, VP of Clinical Operations for Results Physiotherapy Centers shares ways he is working to make physical therapy the first line of defense within Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs).
One example Richardson provides is for patients suffering from low back pain. In the traditional model of treatment, a patient may undergo a number of tests, medications, MRIs and even surgery before getting a referral to see a physical therapist. And in many cases, patients never are referred. In an ACO, a family physician may complete a medical review and then refer the patient to a physical therapist based on clinical presentation. The ACO model encourages efficient coordination which often results in quicker referrals to a specialist and eliminates many of the additional costs incurred in the traditional model. Richardson mentions some health care professionals embrace this new model while others resist it. He addresses this in greater detail in his recent blog posting.
To help build awareness for the benefits physical therapy provides, Richardson advises physical therapists to be persistent. He encourages physical therapists to enhance direct access and help patients become physical therapy advocates. Listen now to discover more.
Where Does Physical Therapy fit in the Accountable Care Organization Model?[ 15:49 ]Play Now | Play in Popup | Download
According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), health care costs grew to over 16% of GDP in 2008. With projections of costs growing to 19% of GDP in the next decade, the need to make health care more efficient, improve outcomes and reduce costs has never been more important. New health care legislation and the creation of coordinated health care groups, Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), are meant to address costs and improve patient care.
Today’s expert shares ways physical therapists can effectively provide high quality outcomes in an efficient, cost-effective manner. In one of two podcasts, Jason Richardson, PT, DPT, OCS, COMT, VP of Clinical Operations for Results Physiotherapy Centers makes a strong argument for physical therapy to become part of primary care within the ACO model.
Physical therapy is not currently defined as a part of the primary care options outlined in the affordable care act. Richardson recommends physical therapists become active now with physician groups, hospitals and payer-based groups forming Accountable Care Organizations to make the case for physical therapy being part of the primary care options offered by the group. Richardson states physical therapy overcomes some of the limitations of coordinated care. Since many chronic diseases are best controlled by exercise, physical therapists are uniquely positioned to help control disease through prescribed exercise programs in an efficient and cost effective manner. Learn the action you can take to earn your place within an Accountable Care Organization by listening now.
Why Physical Therapy Should Participate in Accountable Care Organizations[ 15:10 ]Play Now | Play in Popup | Download
Simply watching your patients walk or run can help you identify gait abnormalities. But you could be missing something. Qualitative slow motion video analysis often allows you to see something missed when watching those same movements in real time. Today’s expert, Damien Howell, PT, DPT, OCS reveals the ways he uses slow motion video analysis at his practice to help clients improve their walking or running technique and enhance performance.
Can video analysis help Physical Therapists treat patients? [ 12:22 ] Play Now | Play in Popup | Download
