Jul 10, 2025  
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Website Catalog (In Development)

PTA 125 - Musculoskeletal Assessment


In this course the students will be introduced to data collection utilized to assist the physical therapist in the assessment of patients with musculoskeletal pathologies.  Students will develop skill in goniometry, manual muscle testing, functional testing, and anthropometric measurements.  Students will learn soft tissue mobilization techniques for the assessment and treatment of patients with musculoskeletal impairments.

Prerequisite- Corequisite
Prerequisites - PTA 100 Introduction to Physical Therapy I, PTA 111 Fundamental PTA Skills & Modalities I, BIO 131 Anatomy & Physiology I

Corequisites - PTA 110 Clinical I, PTA 116 Clinical Kinesiology, PTA 120 Musculoskeletal Pathologies, BIO 132 Anatomy & Physiology II

Credits: 1.5
Hours
3 Lab Hours
Course Profile
Learning Outcomes of the Course:

Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to:

  1. Perform the musculoskeletal assessments of manual muscle testing; goniometry; anthropometric measurements; gross normal and abnormal joint motion; functional range of motion and muscle length in a competent manner within the scope of practice of the physical therapist assistant.
  2. Perform soft tissue mobilization and massage techniques for the extremities and trunk in a safe, competent manner.
  3. Demonstrate accurate, clear, concise written documentation related to musculoskeletal data collection and soft tissue mobilization and massage.
  4. Demonstrate professional therapeutic communication during the performance of musculoskeletal assessments and treatments with surrogate patients.