How is physical therapy defined in Delaware?

Examining, evaluating, and testing patients/clients who have impairments of body structure or function, activity limitations or participation restrictions in physical movement and mobility, or other health and movement related conditions in order to determine a physical therapy diagnosis, prognosis, and plan of treatment intervention, and to assess the ongoing effects of intervention;

Reducing the risk of impairments of body structure or function, activity limitations or participation restrictions in physical movement and mobility, including the promotion and maintenance of fitness, health, and wellness in populations of all ages; and

Engaging in administration, consultation, education, telehealth, and research.

What is included in the practice of physical therapy?

Alleviating impairments of body structure or function, activity limitations or participation restrictions in physical movement and mobility by designing, implementing, and modifying treatment interventions that may include:

• Therapeutic exercise,
• Functional training related to physical movement and mobility in self-care and in home, community, or work integration or reintegration;
• Gait and balance training;
• Neurological re-education;
• Vestibular training;
• Manual, mechanical, and manipulative therapy, including soft tissue, musculoskeletal manipulation, and joint mobilization/manipulation;
• Dry needling;
• Therapeutic massage;
• The prescription, application, and, as appropriate, fabrication of assistive, adaptive, orthotic, prosthetic protective and supportive devices and equipment;
• Airway clearance techniques;
• Integumentary protection and repair techniques;
• Nonsurgical debridement and wound care;
• Evaluative and therapeutic physical agents or modalities;
• Mechanical and electrotherapeutic modalities; and
• Patient related instruction.

What is specifically excluded from the practice?

N/A

Are there any special trainings required?

Delaware PT Dry Needling

Reference

24 Del. Law § 2602