What are the two main categories of practice areas in physical therapy?

The two main categories of practice areas in physical therapy are often classified as musculoskeletal and neurological. Musculoskeletal physical therapy focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting muscles, bones, and joints. This can include a wide range of issues, from sports injuries to post-surgical rehabilitation.

Neurological physical therapy, on the other hand, deals with conditions affecting the nervous system, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease. This area encompasses rehabilitation aimed at improving motor function and daily activities for patients with neurological impairments.

Understanding this classification is crucial for physical therapists as it helps guide their treatment approaches, techniques, and the specific assessments required for different patient populations. Each category embodies distinct knowledge and skill sets, reflecting the complexities of human anatomy and physiology as it pertains to movement and rehabilitation.