Physical Therapy Modality

As deductibles and co-insurances remain high, patients continue to shoulder more of their medical bills than ever. When it comes to paying for surgery, physical therapy and injections, many patients can’t afford to pay their portion of an orthopedic surgery bill all at once.

The nano or needle arthroscopy system that was released for clinical use in September 2019 in the United States is a 1.9-mm arthroscope that can visualize into the ankle joint and be used to perform procedures while the patient is under a local anesthetic in an office or bedside setting. This technique is associated with little down time following the procedure compared to traditional arthroscopy or mini-open procedures.

The answer is yes. Although the term competence does not have a universally accepted definition, many consider it to represent the acquisition of the bare minimum skill set that is acceptable. Proficiency, on the other hand, typically indicates a level of mastery of a particular skill that is well above competency. Competency assessments are generally “described” whereas proficiency is rigidly defined by the attainment of an unambiguously defined benchmark. The groundbreaking level 1, randomized, blinded, prospective study by Richard L. Angelo, MD, PhD, clearly demonstrates that beyond competency, proficiency can be accurately and reliably assessed for the individual learner.

Impaired mobility during hospitalization for acute MI may be a risk factor for functional decline among older patients who survived the event, according to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine.

CHICAGO — At the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Annual Meeting, Judith F. Baumhauer, MD, discussed a study that looked at whether physical therapy produced value for nonoperatively managed foot and ankle patients. She said patient-reported outcomes measures information system (PROMIS) scales showed physical therapy was beneficial for these patients.

Stroke survivors improved their aerobic capacity and walking ability after completing group-based aerobic exercise programs that are similar in design and duration to cardiac rehabilitation programs in the U.S.