Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy: A Modern Definition and Description

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedics
• Physical Therapy
• Manual Therapy

Background:

• Orthopaedic manual physical therapy (OMPT) lacks a contemporary practice description, hindering its understanding and integration into scientific literature and guidelines.
• OMPT is often misclassified as passive care or incorrectly contrasted with exercise-based therapies, leading to a misunderstanding of its active, patient-centered nature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a modern definition and conceptual model for OMPT that reflects current scientific and clinical advancements.
• To outline the essential aspects of advanced OMPT training, including examination and treatment competencies.
• To improve the accurate classification and understanding of OMPT within the physical therapy profession and across healthcare.

Main Methods:

• This perspective paper synthesizes current thinking on OMPT.
• It defines the distinguishing characteristics and key elements of OMPT.
• It proposes a conceptual model for advanced OMPT practice.

Main Results:

• A contemporary definition and conceptual model for OMPT is presented.
• The unique and essential aspects of advanced OMPT training, examination, and treatment competencies are outlined.
• The proposed definition aims to improve understanding and correct classification of OMPT.

Conclusions:

• A clear, modern definition of OMPT is essential for accurate scientific classification and broader healthcare understanding.
• This perspective provides a framework for understanding OMPT as a systematic, active, and patient-centered approach.
• The proposed definition and conceptual model will aid in OMPT's correct study and application in clinical practice and research.